cool tourist attractions in africa

The 50 Most Beautiful Places in Africa

By Caitlin Morton , Meredith Carey , and Sebastian Modak

Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe

Bo-Kaap, South Africa

Rhumsiki Rock, Cameroon

Lake Naivasha, Kenya

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Hannah Towey

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

Abu Simbel, Egypt

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Lake Abbe, Djibouti and Ethiopia

Giza, Egypt

Bandiagara, Mali

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Blyde River Canyon, South Africa

Hoggar Mountains, Algeria

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Fontainhas, Cape Verde

Sossusvlei, Namibia

Ganvie, Benin

Namaqualand, South Africa

Tundavala Gap, Angola

Yamoussoukro, Côte d'Ivoire

Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

Praslin, Seychelles

Table Mountain, South Africa

Lake Retba, Senegal

Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, Botswana

Maletsunyane Falls, Lesotho

Lake Malawi, Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania

Tiébélé, Burkina Faso

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Franschhoek, South Africa

Dougga, Tunisia

Church of Saint George, Ethiopia

Piton de la Fournaise, Réunion

Great Mosque of Djenné, Mali

Fez, Morocco

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Nabiyotum Crater, Kenya

Nile River, Aswan, Egypt

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, Madagascar

Le Morne Brabant, Mauritius

Bwindi Forest, Uganda

Johannesburg, South Africa

Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Abuja National Mosque, Nigeria

Sudd, South Sudan

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Bureh Beach, Sierra Leone

Kakum National Park, Ghana

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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.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Alexandria, Egypt

Addis Ababa

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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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54 Cool Things to See in Africa

Algeria is the largest African country and the tenth-largest country in the world. The country has a diverse landscape and lots to offer in terms of sceneries. One of the main attractions in Algeria is the Saharan region with its never-ending sand and mysterious and lively cities within.  Algiers,  the capital city of the country, was founded by the Ottomans and is rife with beautiful historical architecture. The ancient Casbah is a winding urban maze with streets flowing through the old town like streams. Still in Algiers, there’s the Dar Hassan Pacha, which was once the city’s oldest mansion.

Even though the country has been in news headlines for the wrong reasons, it is important to note that it is one of the countries in Africa with some of the most spectacular nature sites. The country boasts of an expansive coastline of Atlantic Ocean beauty and a beautiful blend of grasslands, savannas, tropical forests, among others. Angola is among the fastest-growing economies in the world and so is Luanda, its capital city. Lying on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, the city’s beautiful scenery of the ocean is disrupted by busy ships and highrise buildings, giving it an attractive city skyline.

Having played a key role in the development of the African slave trade, and as the birthplace of voodoo arts, Benin offers a small but important part of the complex and rich history of the continent. The  Ouidah Museum of History  in Ouidah contains a wealth of objects and illustrations of historic and cultural significance, which, together, gives the visitor an intimate understanding of the region’s past. The museum is located within the compound of the Portuguese Fort in Ouidah. In its earliest days, the Portuguese conducted trade for slaves within the walls of the compound, and throughout its history until it was taken by the Kingdom of Dahomey, it served as the site of the diplomatic presence of Portugal in the area. After the fort became property of Dahomey in 1961, the Dahomean Government began restoration, and in 1967, the fort became the Ouidah Museum of History.

Even though it is landlocked, Botswana is home to some uniquely beautiful landscapes. The Okavango Delta, a vast inland river delta in the North, is arguably one of the most beautiful places in Africa.  The Okavango Delta  is the world’s largest inland delta and is an oasis of islands, wildlife, and lush green vegetation located in the middle of the Kalahari Desert. In 2014, the Okavango Delta became the 1000th site to be officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

One of the main attractions and must sees in Burkina Faso is  Sindou Peaks  with its natural landscapes and abundant wildlife. The Sindou Peaks are one of Burkina’s most unforgettable sights. Millions of years ago, these brown, sandy cones were underwater and they’ve been shaped by the elements ever since. On the border with Ghana is Tiebele Village, home of the Kassena people of Africa, one of the oldest ethnic groups of the country, and, as such, there are a great number of traditional mud huts and architecture, all of which are beautifully decorated. The houses here are built entirely from straw and mud, but they are decorated with character and pride, making them a great scene to witness.

Burundi may be one of the smallest countries in mainland Africa, but it packs a lot of stunning nature into such a small space.  Rusizi River National Park  is just one of the tourist attractions in Burundi, located just outside of Bujumbura, the fascinating Rusizi River National Park. The plains surrounding the river are flooded periodically, bringing hundreds of animals to the area for its vital life source. Hippos are just one of the many animals to frequent the area and are one of the most sought after by tourists. The park, with its clear skies, is a true bird-watchers paradise. The migratory birds that visit the park include rare and beautiful species from both Asia and Europe, such as sandpipers and plovers.

Cameroon, on the Gulf of Guinea, is a Central African country of varied terrain and wildlife. Its inland capital, Yaoundé, and its biggest city, seaport Douala, are transit points to ecotourism sites.  Mandara Mountains  is a volcanic range extending about 120 miles along the northern part of the Nigeria-Cameroon border from Benue River to the south to Mora in the north. The mountains rise to more than 3,500 feet above sea level. During the colonial period, they provided the border between the British and French Cameroons. Today, the mountains are very popular to hikers.

Cape Verde is a nation on a volcanic archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa. It is a popular holiday destination and known for its Creole Portuguese-African culture, traditional morna music, and numerous beaches. One of the coolest attractions in the archipelago is Cidade Velha, an old town in the southern part of the island of Santiago.  Cidade Velha  is the old capital and the oldest settlement in Cape Verde. The town was the first European colonial settlement in the tropics. Some of the meticulously planned original designs of the site are still intact, including a royal fortress, two towering churches, and a 16th-century town square. Today, Cidade Velha is an Atlantic shipping stop and center for Creole culture. The city became a UNESCO World Heritage Site 2009.

Even though the country has been in news headlines for the wrong reasons, it has another side that has been less highlighted – the beautiful flora and fauna within its borders. In the midst of the ravaging armed conflict which tore the country apart, elephants, gorillas, leopards, and chimpanzees found safety in an extraordinary place –  Dzanga Sangha , a true natural sanctuary for the emblematic species of the Congo Basin. Hidden in the middle of the tropical forest, this World Heritage Site endured and prevailed. Activities that can be done in the rainforest include gorilla tracking, Agile Mangabey tracking, observing forest elephants, saline tours, and pirogue rides, as well as many others.

A largely semi-desert country, Chad is rich in gold and uranium. One of the most popular tourist attractions to this fifth-largest African nation is the  Zakouma National Park,  which was founded in 1963, covering an area of 305,000 hectares. It is located south-east of Chad, 45 km from the nearest town, AM Timan, and 800 km from N’Djamena, the capital of Chad. The fauna of the park includes 44 species of large mammals and 250 species of birds. Civil wars and poaching once ravaged the area, but it has since been rehabilitated thanks to the efforts of the local government and other development partners. It is common to see large herds of giraffes, lions, wildebeests, primates, and elephants roaming freely.

One of the most common holiday destinations is Comoros, which is a volcanic archipelago off Africa’s east coast in the warm Indian Ocean waters of the Mozambique Channel. The nation state’s largest island, Grande Comore (Ngazidja), is ringed with beaches and old lava from active Mt. Karthala Volcano.  Mount Karthala  is the most notable feature of the Grande Comore as it is an active volcano and the highest point of the Comoros at 2,361 meters above sea level. Its eruptions have created a spectacular landscape on the mountains. During calmer days, the volcano is a popular hiking, walking and trekking spot. While the ascent can be challenging, the views from the top are unmatched with flora and fauna unique to Comoros.

The Republic of Congo, or Congo-Brazzaville as it is commonly known, is home to immense undisturbed natural attractions. The country has in its borders very impressive historic landmarks and remnants of days past, especially in the capital where beautiful mosques and basilicas stand side by side. The main attraction in the country is the  Odzala National Park.  which holds some of the most guarded wildlife secrets in the world. The park is a true ecotourism paradise offering an outstanding mix of flora and fauna. Within the beautifully-painted ancient forest that dates back to 1935, there are numerous intertwining walking and hiking trails that lead to beautiful savannahs and wildlife-filled areas where the rarest of species can be spotted, including lowland gorillas, elephants, monkeys, spotted hyenas, bongos, lions, buffalos, leopards, and many other mammals and birds.

Democratic Republic of Congo is a vast country with immense economic resources. Nestled in the far northeast corner of the Democratic Republic of Congo,  Garamba National Park  is one of the major attractions of the Congo, and is the last holdout for the largest population of elephants and the only surviving population of the Kordofan giraffe in all of Congo. The principal activities in the national park are day-long drives and guided hikes which, presumably, would be an incredible way to experience this remotest of remote African bushland. The Aerial Safari is another thrilling option in a Cessna 206, from which you experience aerial views of herds of elephants, solitary giraffes, and the landscapes from above.

Touted as a true tropical paradise, Cote d’Ivoire, or Ivory Coast, is a West African country full of beach resorts, rainforests, and a French-colonial legacy.  The Grand-Bassam  is a resort town near the city of Abidjan. It’s known for its busy, palm-backed beach stretching along the Atlantic coastline. The town was once the French colonial town center and once the nation’s capital. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town bursts forth from the Ivorian Coast with a medley of elegant Parisian mansions and crafted colonial municipal buildings that is the Ancient Bassam district. Some of the 19th and 20th Century houses have been renovated and returned to their former glory and offer a great peek into pre-colonial history and architecture.

Located on the Horn of Africa, Djibouti is a mostly French and Arabic-speaking country of dry shrub lands, volcanic formations, and Gulf of Aden beaches. It is home to one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world, low-lying Lake Assal in the Danakil Desert. The country offers a wide range of tourist attractions due to its diverse geography that gives way to exciting explorations while also offering up a quiet haven for those looking to enjoy a more laidback holiday.  Moucha Islands,  situated a few miles from the shore of Djibouti, is a magical stretch of islands that is just under two miles long and surrounded by stunning coral reefs. It is frequented by travelers who are interested in snorkeling, fishing, and diving.

Egypt is the country linking Northeast Africa with the Middle East. The country has a rich history as it dates back to the time of the pharaohs. Millennia-old monuments sit along the fertile Nile River Valley, including Giza’s colossal pyramids and Great Sphinx, as well as Luxor’s hieroglyph-lined Karnak Temple and Valley of the King’s Tombs. The capital, Cairo, is home to Ottoman landmarks like the Muhammad Ali Mosque and the Egyptian Museum, offering up a trove of antiquities. A must-see in Egypt is the  Pyramids of Giza,  which are the centerpieces of Egyptian culture. The pyramids are famous world over, and the last remaining landmark of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the pyramids are the country’s crowning achievement. There are a host of structures to explore from the Great Pyramid of Cheops, the oldest, to the Sphinx, which stands guard.

Equatorial Guinea is a Central African country comprising the Rio Muni mainland and five volcanic offshore islands. Capital Malabo on Bioko Island has Spanish colonial architecture and is a hub for the country’s prosperous oil industry. Its Arena Blanca Beach draws dry season butterflies. The tropical forest of the mainland’s Monte Alen National Park is home to gorillas, chimpanzees and elephants. One of the main attractions in Equatorial Guinea is the  Catedral de Santa Isabel,  standing on the west side of the Plaza de España; this is a gracious apricot-hued building and the most beautiful in the country. The architect, Llairadó Luis Segarra, had some input from Antonio Gaudí. Construction began in 1887 and it was consecrated in 1916. The style is Gothic Revival and it is flanked by two 40m high towers and has three naves.

Eritrea is a Northeast African country on the Red Sea coast. The capital city, Asmara, is known for its Italian colonial buildings like  St. Joseph’s Cathedral , as well as art deco structures. Asmara has retained its 19th Century charm thanks to its collection of the old colonial buildings. Among the most imposing buildings in the city is the cathedral, which was built in 1922, located an arm’s length away from the lively market area. The largest mosque in the country is also found here, known as the Al Khulafa Al Rashidin Mosque. Along the main thoroughfare of the city, National Avenue offers numerous cafés and bars, along with local landmarks like the Asmara Theatre, the town hall, the beautiful Nda Mariam Catholic Cathedral, and Ghibi Palace, where the National Museum is located.

Ethiopia, in the Horn of Africa, is a rugged, landlocked country split by the Great Rift Valley. With archaeological finds dating back more than 3 million years, it is a place of ancient culture. Among its important sites are Lalibela with its rock-cut Christian churches from the 12th–13th centuries. Aksum is the ruins of an ancient city with obelisks, tombs, castles, and Our Lady Mary of Zion Church.  The Old Cathedral of St. Mary of Zion and Treasury  is one of the most striking religious constructions in Axum. The cathedral was built in the 17th Century and is said to be the secret hiding place of the Ark of the Covenant. Although it is not available for public viewing, the chapel’s stunning architecture is worth a view.

Gabon is located along the Atlantic coast of Central Africa and has significant areas of protected parkland. The forested coastal terrain of its famed Loango National Park shelters a diversity of wildlife from gorillas and hippos to whales. Lopé National Park consists of mostly rainforest. Akanda National Park is known for its mangroves and tidal beaches. A major attraction in the country is the  Cathedral of Saint Michael,  a prominent landmark and a tourist attraction in Libreville, Gabon’s capital. The cathedral was built by the French missionary, Gerard Morel, and Gabonese sculptor, Zephyrin Lendongo. The best features of this stunning building are its ornately carved columns, which were remarkably carved by a blind local craftsman. Each of the 31 wooden columns depict a different Biblical scene designed by Lendongo and Morel.

Gambia is a small West African country with a narrow Atlantic coastline and it is known for its diverse ecosystems around the central Gambia River. Abundant wildlife in its Kiang West National Park and Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve includes monkeys, leopards, hippos, hyenas, and rare birds. The capital, Banjul, and nearby Serrekunda offers access to beaches.  Abuko Nature Reserve  is one of the main attractions of Gambia. The nature reserve is well-managed and easy to reach from major resorts and attractions. It is possible to explore it on foot to see more than 300 species of birds, reptiles, forest antelopes, monkeys, and crocodiles. From the nature reserve, one can also head upstream to learn about the colonial history of Gambia in the twin villages of Juffureh and Albreda.

Ghana is on West Africa’s Gulf of Guinea and is popularly known for its diverse wildlife, old forts, and secluded beaches, such as Busua. Coastal towns Elmina and Cape Coast contain native shrines (or posubans as they are known), colonial buildings, and castles-turned-museums that serve as testimonials to the slave trade.  The Elmina Castle  is one of the most important historic treasures of Ghana. Built in the 15th Century, the Elmina Castle was one of the centers of slave trade in the region. The castle has been fully restored for historic tours and the on-site visitor’s center houses an impressive collection of photographs that show the structure’s history.

Guinea is a Western African country that borders the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve in the southeast. The reserve protects a forested mountain range rich in native plants and animals, including chimpanzees and the viviparous toad. On the coast, the capital city, Conakry, is home to the modern Grand Mosque and the National Museum with its regional artifacts. The country is filled with all kinds of unexplored wonders from its dry rainforests to diverse wildlife, breathtaking mountains, and vibrant culture.  The Conakry Grand Mosque  is one of the greatest pieces of architecture in the city and a must-see when visiting.

Guinea-Bissau is a tropical country on West Africa’s Atlantic coast and is known for national parks and wildlife. The forested, sparsely populated Bijagós archipelago is a protected biosphere reserve. Its main island, Bubaque, forms part of the Orango Islands National Park, a habitat for saltwater hippos. On the mainland, Bissau (capital), is a port with Portuguese colonial buildings in its old city center. A must-see landmark in Guinea-Bissau is the  Cathedral of Our Lady of Candelaria  located in Bissau City. It was built on the site of an ancient Roman Medieval Church dating from 1935; its construction, in itself, began in 1945. The center of Catholicism in Guinea-Bissau was visited on 27 January 1990 by Pope John Paul II. The offices and services of the church are in the Portuguese language.

Kenya is an East African nation on the Indian Ocean coastline. The country is rich in diversity and it encompasses savannah, lake lands, the dramatic Great Rift Valley, and mountain highlands. It is also home to wildlife such as lions, elephants and rhinos. From Nairobi (Kenya’s capital), safaris visit the Maasai Mara Reserve, known for its annual wildebeest migrations, and Amboseli National Park. Kenya also has interesting human history, which can be better understood after visiting the World Heritage old town on the island of Lamu or by visiting the well-preserved Fort Jesus at Mombasa. A major attraction in the country is the  Fort Jesus , a World Heritage Site that was constructed on a rocky island by the Portuguese in 1593 to protect the Old Port of Mombasa. This well-preserved fortification is one of the major attractions and has a museum displaying artifacts relating to the time when Mombasa was a major stop on the slave trade route.

Lesotho is a high-altitude and landlocked kingdom encircled by South Africa. The small nation is crisscrossed by a network of rivers and mountain ranges including the 3,482m high peak of Thabana Ntlenyana. On the  Thaba Bosiu   Plateau  near Lesotho’s capital, Maseru, are ruins dating from the 19th Century reign of King Moshoeshoe I. The Thaba Bosiu is Lesotho’s most revered site and a national monument. The sandstone plateau lies just 15 miles from the capital and holds Moshoeshoe’s grave and the graves of subsequent rulers, as well as remnants of the original settlement. The steep cliffs and flat eroded plateau are reminiscent of Table Mountain, and the views across the land from the heights are spectacular.

Liberia is in West Africa and lies on the Atlantic coast. Its capital city, Monrovia, is home to the Liberia National Museum with its exhibits on national culture and history. Around Monrovia are palm-lined beaches like Silver and CeCe. Along the coast, beach towns include the Port of Buchanan, as well as laid-back Robertsport, known for its strong surf. One of the must-visit places in Liberia is  Careysburg Town , a  historic town in Liberia filled with Southern US-style architecture as a result of an influx of freed slaves from America. Founded in 1856 and named after the first Baptist missionary, the township is just 15 miles from Monrovia and an active farming community.

Libya is a country in the Maghreb Region of North Africa bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north.  Libya has a rich history of over 2,500 years. Some of the ancient attractions date back to the Ottoman period or magnificent Greek and Roman remains, and the Sahara desert, once a green and fertile land, is now one of the most forbiddingly spectacular regions on earth. The walled  Tripoli Old Town  is a major attraction in Libya. Its surroundings are worth hours of exploration for their heritage buildings, Roman arch, and stunning old mosques dating as early as 8th Century AD. There are elegant former consulates and winding and narrow streets lined with tiny stores and eateries. The historic palaces of former rulers are being restored and open to tourists, while the Tripoli Bazaar is famous for its crafts including fine jewelry and traditional artifacts.

The Republic of Madagascar, or formerly known as Malagasy, is an island country in the Indian Ocean off the coast of South East Africa.  It is the fourth largest island in the world and is home to thousands of animal species, such as lemurs found nowhere else, plus rainforests, beaches and reefs. Near the busy capital of Antananarivo is Ambohimanga, a hillside complex of royal palaces.  The Ancient Ambohimanga  was the birthplace of Madagascar, known for a time as the Blue City, the Forbidden City and the Holy City. In the early years of the state, it was the stronghold of the ruling Merina Dynasty, and is home to a number of significant places where important rituals took place. The main gate is a massive stone disc which took 40 strong townsmen to roll it open or closed. The city is surrounded by rainforests and its Royal Hill is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Malawi is a landlocked country in Southeastern Africa and is defined by its topography of highlands split by the Great Rift Valley and enormous Lake Malawi. The lake’s southern end falls within Lake Malawi National Park, home to diverse wildlife from colorful fish to baboons, and its clear waters are popular for diving and boating. The peninsular  Cape Maclear  is known for its beach resorts. The area is a laidback and a suitable holiday destination. The cape, named by David Livingstone, is located inside a small national park of the same name bordering Lake Malawi’s southern shore. The beaches and the lakeshore are small, sandy and rock-strewn, yet perfect for sunbathing and water sports.

With an area of just over 1,240,000 square kilometres, the Republic of Mali is the eighth-largest country in Africa, and with it comes immense beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. One of the main attractions is the  Grand Mosque of Djenne , an impressive and large mud-brick building, whose current structure was erected in 1907. A mosque has stood on the present location at the Niger and Bani rivers since the 13th Century, when Djenne was an important Islamic learning center and trading post. Today, the Grand Mosque is the centerpiece of Djenne’s Old Town and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Located in the Maghreb Region of Western Africa, Mauritania’s natural landscape is diverse, offering travelers a great deal of attractions to explore and enjoy. Whether it’s roaming the deserted towns or marveling at a unique desert-like national park, there is enough to experience. There are also several historical and cultural sites which are great for travelers who want to learn more about this interesting slice of Africa. The most popular attraction of Mauritania is the  Banc d’Arguin National Park . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to one of the world’s largest bird sanctuaries and is an absolute must for bird lovers. Everything from pink flamingos, royal terns, and gull-billed terns to white pelicans, grey pelicans and broad-billed sandpipers can be found here. Spanning a vast area of over 120 miles, the park is a beautiful mixture of desert, coastal islands, and sea.

Mauritius is an Indian Ocean island nation that is commonly known for its beaches, lagoons, and reefs. The mountainous interior includes Black River Gorges National Park with rainforests, waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife such as the flying fox. Capital Port Louis has sites such as the Champs de Mars Horse Track, Eureka Plantation House, and 18th Century Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens.  The Blue Penny Museum  is one of the major attractions on the island. The museum was established in 2001 primarily as a stamp museum and was named after the collection’s blue and red penny stamps that were purchased for US $2,000,000 in 1993. The museum also has sculptures, paintings, and old marine maps relating to Mauritian history. There is also an exhibition about the Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre novel ‘Paul and Virginie’, first published in 1787 and set in Mauritius.

Morocco is a North African country bordering the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The country is distinguished by its Berber, Arabian, and European cultural influences. Marrakech’s Medina, a maze-like medieval quarter, offers entertainment in its Djemaa el-Fna square and marketplaces or souks selling ceramics, jewelry, and metal lanterns. The capital, Rabat’s Kasbah of the Udayas, is a 12th Century royal fort overlooking the water. A must-see attraction is the  Hassan II Mosque . This is the seventh-largest mosque in the world and one of the biggest attractions in Casablanca. The minaret is the world’s tallest standing at an impressive 689 feet. The building is also an architectural masterpiece with handcrafted marble walls and a retractable roof. It is one of the only two Islamic religious buildings in Morocco that are open to non-Muslims.

Located in the southern part of Africa, Mozambique has immense potential with regards to tourist sites. Its historic attractions are centered on the country’s 400 years of Portuguese colonial occupation. The country’s sublime natural beauty along its coast and interior is at its best in the protected national parks and ecosystems with varied biodiversity areas holding everything from savannahs to wetlands and rainforests. One of the major attractions here is the  Church of Nossa Senhora de Baluarte , the oldest European religious building in the entire southern hemisphere. Built in the mid 16th Century, decades after Vasco da Gama laid claim to Mozambique for Portugal, the Manuelino-vaulted structure is found just outside the island’s Sao Sebastiao Fort in solitary splendor on a peninsula overlooking the ocean.

Namibia is located in Southwest Africa and is distinguished by the Namib Desert along its Atlantic Ocean coast. The country is home to diverse wildlife, including a significant cheetah population. The capital, Windhoek, and coastal town, Swakopmund, contain German colonial-era buildings such as Windhoek’s Christuskirche, built in 1907. In the north,  Etosha National Park’s  salt pan draws game including rhinos and giraffes. This is a major attraction in Namibia. The park is centered on the Etosha Pan, a depression of around 1,930 square miles and features a white chalky expanse, grassy plains, and hilly woodlands. Watering holes become the most prominent feature during the dry season where wildlife including elephants, giraffes, lions, and rhinos gather to drink.

Named after the Niger River, the Republic of Niger is a landlocked country in Western Africa. Places to visit in Niger are diverse, from cultural attractions reflecting the traditions of desert empires, to wild and wonderful natural beauty. One of its main tourist attractions is the  Agadez , an ancient city founded in the 11th Century. It then became an important seat of the famous sultanates of the Sahel and an established center of Islamic learning. It was an important stop on the trans-Saharan trade route for merchants crossing the desert by camel, and today it also remains an important point on the trans-Sahara highway, an important trunk road for transporting goods north to south through Africa. It is still a populated and busy city, important for trade in the region, and today, visitors can enjoy a mix of the old and new. The key sites from the Islamic tradition are the Sultanate Palace and the Agadez Mosque, built in the 16th Century. It is also an important center for the Tuareg people, who are famous for producing metal and leather handicrafts, which are available for purchasing at the local markets.

Nigeria, the most populated country on the continent, is located on the Gulf of Guinea and has many natural landmarks and wildlife reserves. One of the most recognizable sites is Zuma Rock, a 725m tall monolith outside the capital of Abuja that’s pictured on the national currency. Protected areas such as Cross River National Park and Yankari National Park have waterfalls, dense rainforests, savannas, and rare primate habitats.  The Yankari National Park  is Africa’s largest park, and was officially opened in 1991, although it had been a game reserve since 1934. Today, it is an extremely popular ecotourism spot and one of the places in Africa you can go to spot one of the ‘big five’. The park covers an area of about 870 square meters and attracts around 20,000 visitors per year from 100 countries, making it Nigeria’s most popular tourist destination.

Rwanda is a landlocked East African country with a green mountainous landscape. Its renowned Volcanoes National Park is home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The park encompasses 4,507m tall Mt. Karisimbi and four other forested volcanoes. One of the major attractions is the  Gisozi Genocide Memorial Center . The memorial center houses history of the darkest days of the 1994 genocide that is still fresh in the memories of those who survived. The genocide spanned 100 days in which almost one million Rwandans were brutally murdered. The museum pays thoughtful respect to the victims of the event and also sheds some light for those unaware of the context during the period. The center is divided into three separate sections, each dealing with a different aspect of the genocide. It is important to note that a trip to the center is not for the weak and can become quite an emotional experience.

Floating in the Gulf of Guinea, São Tomé and Príncipe, is a two-island nation close to the equator and is part of a volcano chain featuring striking rock and coral formations, rainforests, and beaches. On the larger island, São Tomé, is the Lagoa Azul Lagoon.  Ôbo Natural Park , a biodiverse jungle preserve, covers much of São Tomé and is distinguished by Pico Cão Grande, a skyscraper-like volcanic rock. On the other hand,  Principe  is a tidy and unspoiled island of just 70,000 people. A canopy of green broken by spires of primordial rock, Príncipe is a magnificent Lost World, offering fantastic beaches, jungle exploration, snorkeling, fishing, and bird-watching.

Located on the west coast of Africa, Senegal has a rich French colonial heritage and many natural attractions. Dakar, the capital, features the ancient Médina District and esteemed Musée Théodore Monod, displaying African art.   The Institut Fondamental d’Afrique Noire (IFAN)  is one of the must sees when visiting Senegal. Surrounded by the Presidential Palace and its luscious gardens, it is the biggest and oldest museum not only in Dakar, but in all of West Africa. Although there are no English translations of the museum’s French displays, no interpretation is necessary to admire the traditional West African farming tools, musical instruments, artwork, statues, and handmade fabric displayed within the museum’s walls.

The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean off East Africa. It is home to numerous beaches, coral reefs, and nature reserves, as well as rare animals such as giant Aldabra tortoises.  Mahé,  a hub for visiting the other islands, is home to capital, Victoria. It also has the mountain rainforests of Morne Seychellois National Park and Beaches, including Beau Vallon and Anse Takamaka. Much of the island is taken over by lush jungle, including the Morne Seychelles National Park and nearby Baie Ternay Marine National Park. Both have great walking tours and Baie Ternay also has fabulous diving.

Best known for the white sandy beaches lining the Freetown Peninsula, Sierra Leone’s landmarks and attractions can be divided into those displaying incredible natural beauty and those that deal with the country’s complex and interesting social and economic history. Its capital city, Freetown, commemorates the nation’s slave-trade history with the Cotton Tree landmark and King’s Yard Gate. Both were known as places of refuge for returned slaves in the 18th and 19th centuries. Nearby Bunce Island was a key departure point during the slave trade . The Cotton Tree  dominates the city’s skyline, having cast a welcomed shadow over several buildings, including the Sierra Leone National Museum, for an estimated 500 years. This tree holds a great deal of historical significance. It is said that slaves who had gained independence from Britain during the American War of Independence returned to their homeland and held a Thanksgiving service under the tree to commemorate the occasion.

Even though armed conflict has cast the nation located on the Horn of Africa in a bad light, Somalia boasts of many natural landmarks, including national parks and mountains in which locals place a great deal of pride. Most of the attractions concern the region’s cultural and political history.  The Laas Geel  is the best-known and most popular landmark in Somalia. Laas Geel is a series of caves in Somaliland that display hundreds of ancient Neolithic paintings. The rock art in these caves is, arguably, some of the best-preserved anywhere in the world dating back to 9000 BC, and travelers who are able to visit the site are privileged.

Located on the southernmost tip of the African continent, South Africa is marked by several distinct ecosystems. Inland safari destination, Kruger National Park, is populated by big game. The Western Cape offers beaches, lush winelands around Stellenbosch and Paarl, craggy cliffs at the Cape of Good Hope, forest and lagoons along the Garden Route, and the city of Cape Town, beneath flat-topped Table Mountain.  The Robben Island  is one of the must-visit places in South Africa. The Island was the location of an infamous jail from the time the original Dutch pioneers arrived in the 17th Century until the latter years of the 20th Century. Along with Nelson Mandela, the jail housed Robert Sobukwe and various other political luminaries and soldiers during its history. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a living reminder of apartheid.

Africa’s youngest and the world’s newest country, the Republic of South Sudan is an Eastern-Central country that gained its independence from Sudan in 2011. Its current capital, Juba, is also the largest city. The country has been facing a civil war since July 2016 and all travel to South Sudan has been strongly discouraged. Once the security situation improves, the country has a lot to offer such as the Safaris to  Boma National Park and Nimule National Park . Here, you will experience the greatest migration of mammals on the earth in Boma National Park.

Also known as North Sudan after South Sudan’s independence, Sudan’s attractions are some of the most appealing in the Northeastern African region. Boasting a good balance between sites celebrating the country’s immense natural beauty and landmarks, which speak of Sudan’s interesting history, the country has a great deal to offer tourists of every inclination, from the ancient pyramid to the well-established historical museum and breathtaking volcanic mountain range.  Pyramids of Meroe  is the most popular tourist attraction in the country. They are one of the last remaining symbols from an ancient civilization. Built by the Meroitic Pharaohs around 500 BC, the pyramids are different from their counterparts in neighboring Egypt. They display steep brick sides and appear in groups of 12. Travelers are permitted to enter the pyramids in which ancient graffiti and hieroglyphics can be seen.

Swaziland is a small landlocked monarchy in Southern Africa and is best known for its wilderness reserves and festivals showcasing traditional Swazi culture. Marking its northeastern border with Mozambique and stretching down to South Africa, the Lebombo Mountains are a backdrop for Mlawula Nature Reserve’s many hiking trails.  The Hlane Royal National Park,  where hikers can come face to face with lions, elephants, or dozens of other large African wildlife species, is one of the main attractions in Swaziland. The park sits 40 miles northeast of Manzini. Africa’s highest density of white-backed vultures and the world’s southernmost marabou stork nesting colony are just two of this park’s exotic bird species.

Tanzania is an East African country known for its vast wilderness areas. These include the plains of Serengeti National Park and the Kilimanjaro National Park, home to Africa’s highest mountain. Offshore lies the tropical islands of Zanzibar with Arabic influences and a marine park home to whale sharks and coral reefs. One of the coolest places to visit is the  Serengeti  along with the Maasai Mara Reserve in Kenya, is one of the main draws to Africa in general. Stretching into neighboring Kenya, this vast plain sees the Great Migration where two or three million animals, including herds of wildebeest, head for seasonal grazing. Lions and cheetahs bring up the rear to take out the weak, while massive crocodiles take opportunistic swipes at individuals crossing the rivers. The migration is a must-see when visiting during its seasons.

Togo is West African nation on the Gulf of Guinea and is best-known for its palm-lined beaches and hilltop villages. Koutammakou, inhabited by the Batammariba people, is a traditional settlement of fortress-like clay huts dating to the 17th Century. In the capital, Lomé, are the multistory Grand Marché Bazaar and the Fetish Market, offering traditional talismans and remedies relating to the vodun (voodoo) religion.  The Kpalime Region  is one of the most tranquil and serene areas of Togo. Here, tourists ascend the hills onto the plateau and are met with swarms of colorful butterflies while walking through the lush, green tropical rainforest. The area is surrounded by cocoa plantations, and they can climb the highest peak in the country, Mount Agou, for views of Lake Volta in neighboring Ghana.

Tunisia is a North African country bordering the Mediterranean Sea and Sahara Desert. In the capital, Tunis, the Bardo Museum has archaeological exhibits from Roman mosaics to Islamic art. No visit to Tunisia’s national capital would be complete without exploring the city’s old quarter, better known as  Al-Madinah . Although this walled medina was first constructed in 7th Century AD, the golden era, when Tunis was one of the Islamic world’s most prosperous and powerful cities, lasted between the 12th and 16th centuries. Tourists see remnants of all of these eras while meandering through Al-Madinah’s winding and narrow streets, where vendors sell much of the same exotic foods and handmade merchandise.

Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa, whose diverse landscape encompasses the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and immense Lake Victoria. Its abundant wildlife includes chimpanzees as well as rare birds. Remote Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a renowned mountain gorilla sanctuary. Murchison Falls National Park in the northwest is known for its 43m tall waterfall and wildlife such as hippos. One of the main attractions is the  Queen Elizabeth National Park  spanning between Lake George and Lake Edward. The park has a diverse ecosystem offering a plethora of things to see, including savanna, wetlands, forests and lakes. It is home to over 600 species of birds, chimpanzees, hippopotamus, elephants and the famous tree-climbing lions. These are set in some spectacular scenery such as magnificent volcanic cones, craters and the beautiful Lake Katwe. On a clear day, it is possible to witness fantastic views of the Ruwenzori Mountains.

Zambia is in Southern Africa and is a landlocked country of rugged terrain and diverse wildlife with many parks and safari areas. On its border with Zimbabwe is famed  Victoria Falls,  also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “Smoke That Thunders,” plunging a misty 108m into narrow Batoka Gorge. Spanning the Zambezi River just below the falls is Victoria Falls Bridge, a spectacular viewpoint. The falls is one of the most amazing waterfalls in the world, at more than twice the size of Niagara Falls. It took an estimated 100,000 years of erosion for Victoria Falls to be naturally created. The surrounding area has been designed to give visitors the most up-close and personal experience with its bridge over the gorge allowing for spectacular views. The spray causes permanent rain and beautiful rainbows, as well as the picture-worthy smoke.

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in Southern Africa and is best known for its dramatic landscape and diverse wildlife, much of it within parks, reserves and safari areas. On the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls make a thundering 108m drop into narrow Batoka Gorge, where there’s white-water rafting and bungee-jumping. Downstream are Matusadona and Mana Pools national parks, home to hippos, rhinos and birdlife.  A must-see in the country is the  Great Zimbabwe National Monument . This is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the second-largest collection of ruins in Africa after the Egyptian pyramids. One of the greatest African civilizations, the Great Zimbabwe dominated the region between the 13th and 15th centuries. The complex is as powerful as the civilization was, with the main temple walls standing almost 10m high with a circumference of over 200m.

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Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

100 of the Best Places You Can Visit in Africa

November 10, 2017 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on November 1, 2022 by Lauren Melnick

Planning a trip to Africa can be daunting. With so many destinations to choose from, experiences to have and cultures to absorb, it can feel overwhelming.

To help you narrow things down and give you some inspiration for your next adventure, here are 100 of the best places to visit in Africa and what to see and do once you’re there.

Table of Contents

Here are some of the best things to see in South Africa:

Here are a few of my top picks for the best places to visit in mozambique:, here are a few of the best places to visit in rwanda and what to do while you’re there:, best places to visit in namibia, here are some of the top things to do in kenya:, here are some of the best places to see and things to do to uncover the country’s cultural, historical and natural gems:, here are some of the best things to see while in morocco:, here are some of the top things to do in tanzania:, even more things to do in africa, the best places in africa, best places to visit  in south africa.

But besides the country’s wealth of incredible natural beauty, it’s also a melting pot of diversity. If you’ve never been to Africa, get your feet wet here and get ready to explore the top attractions in South Africa.

• Climb to the top of Table Mountain or Lion’s Head for an epic sunset spot.
• Visit Namaqualand during wildflower season.
• Grab your camera and try spot the Big 5 on a game drive inside Kruger National Park .
• Hire a car and explore South Africa’s famous Garden Route .
• Go on a road trip through the Panorama Route .
• Swim with penguins in Simon’s Town at Boulders Beach .
• Hike one of the country’s most renowned trails, the Otter Trail .
• Try traditional Cape Malay food and go to a braai.
• Hike up to Africa’s tallest waterfall, Tugela Falls in the Drakensberg .
• Jump Off The Bloukrans Bridge, the highest bungee jump in the world in the Garden Route .
• Get day drunk on a wine tour through the Cape Winelands .
• Conquer South Africa’s iconic multi-day slackpacking trail, The Whale Trail .
• Go on a day trip to Cape Point and explore the shipwrecks at the tip of Africa.
• Spend a night stargazing and sleeping underneath Wolfberg Arch in the Cederberg.

Read More:  The Ultimate South Africa Bucket List: 40+ Amazing Places to Visit

Best Places to Visit in Mozambique

Armed with pristine beaches, dazzling azure waters and incredible marine life, Mozambique is a top choice for beach bums. It’s also one of the best budget destinations in Africa for South Africans and international travellers.

• Explore Bazaruto Island on a day trip or spend a night at a luxury resort.
• Swim with whale sharks at Tofo Beach .
• Try the local dish matapa with fresh prawns or sans meat.
• See Pemba’s colonial architecture and pristine beaches.
• Visit Gorongosa National Park for an unforgettable Southern Africa safari.
• Go on a guided walk through Niassa Reserve, one of Africa’s largest conservation areas.
• Discover the Island of Mozambique, once the epicentre of Portuguese East Africa and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Escape the city and head to the remote Inhaca Island for a day trip.
• Go diving with dolphins off the coast of Ponta do Ouro.
• Head to Mabu Forest and hike through one of Africa’s largest remaining primaeval highland forests.

Read More: How To Travel To Mozambique on a Budget from South Africa

Best Places to Visit in Rwanda

Since its tragic genocide in 1994, Rwanda has rebuilt itself into one of the top destinations in Africa.

It’s considered the 9th safest country in the world and is home to critically endangered mountain gorillas.

If you want to get a taste of East Africa at its finest, head to this tiny country and get ready to explore its vibrant culture, rich biodiversity, and so much more.

• Go gorilla trekking or visit Dian Fossey’s grave inside the Volcanoes National Park.
• Visit Rwanda’s only Big 5 reserve, Akagera National Park .
• Learn about Rwanda’s past at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
• Explore Lake Kivu, one of the world’s only three “exploding lakes.
• Spend some time visiting the city of Butare and see the impressive royal palace.
• Sign up for a day trip to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s last remaining high-altitude tropical rainforests.
• Experience Rwanda’s natural beauty by hiking the famous Congo-Nile Trail.
• Summit Mount Bisoke, an active volcano that borders The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.
• Go on a sustainable tea plantation tour at the Pfunda Tea Factory.

Read More:  Travel to Rwanda: 15 Useful Things to Know Before You Go

If you want to experience a different side of Africa, here are some of the top things to see and do in Namibia:

• Visit the Spitzkoppe granite peaks in the Namib Desert.
• Go on a game drive through Etosha National Park.
• Explore Fish River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world.
• Pay a visit to the world’s biggest ship graveyard on the Skeleton Coast.
• Tackle the sand dunes near Swakopmund.
• Watch 150,000 of Cape Fur Seals flock to Cape Cross for the breeding season.
• Watch the sunrise over Sossusvlei and visit the famous Dune 45.
• Go camping at Twyfelfontein and see one of Africa’s largest concentrations of rock engravings.
• Visit the ghost town of Kolmanskop .
• Spend a day kitesurfing along the coast at Walvis Bay.
• Watch the sunset over Brandberg Mountain, the highest peak in Namibia.

Read More:  An Incredible 10-Day Namibia Road Trip Itinerary

Best Places to Visit in Kenya

This annual migration creates the perfect setting for epic wildlife viewings. It’s also home to the indigenous Masai tribe, famous for their warriors and nomadic lifestyle.

• Witness the “Greatest Wildlife Show on Earth” at the Masai Mara National Park.
• Explore Kenya’s own Machu Pichu, The Lost Town of Gedi.
• Visit the local Masai tribes and learn about their ancient traditions and culture.
• Summit Mount Kenya, the highest peak in the country.
• Discover the world’s largest permanent desert lake, Lake Turkana and meet The El Molo Tribe.
• Wander around Hell’s Gate National Park on foot and without a guide.
• Relax on the beautiful beaches of Diani Beach .
• Go on a safari at Tsavo, one of the largest national parks in the world.
• Watch almost one million flamingos flock to the shores of Lake Nakuru.
• Stay at Giraffe Manor and have breakfast with the endangered Rothschild giraffes.
• Experience some of Kenya’s best dive sites at Watamu Marine National Park.

Read More:  Travel to Kenya: 15 Useful Things To Know Before You Go

Best Places to Visit in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is home to some of Africa’s most unique historical attractions. From underground monolithic churches to a kaleidoscope of tribal cultures, Ethiopia is unlike any other destination on earth.

• Try the delicious traditional Ethiopian food.
• Visit the medieval holy city of Lalibela and explore its 11 monolithic churches built in the 12th and 13th centuries.
• Explore the lowest point in Africa and the hottest place on earth, the Danakil Depression.
• Go to the city of Harar on the Day of Ashura and watch packs of hyenas predict the future.
• Sign up for a walking safari inside Babile Elephant Sanctuary and visit the largest elephant herd in Ethiopia.
• Make your way to the Rift Valley and explore the seven lakes, hot springs and rich biodiversity.
• Go to The Blue Nile Falls and walk across Ethiopia’s first stone bridge built in the 17th century.
• Experience the unique culture and traditions of the Omo Valley tribes.
• Visit Gondar , a UNESCO Heritage Site known as the Camelot of Africa.

Best Places to Visit in Morocco

Over the last few years, Morocco has become a popular Instagram destination and one of the best places to visit in Africa.

From its bustling markets, intricate architecture and breathtaking natural beauty, there’s a seemingly endless amount of things to add to your bucket list.

• Ditch the heat and visit Morocco’s ski resorts in winter.
• Visit the small village of Merzouga and stay with the nomadic Berber tribe in the Sahara Desert.
• Stroll through the blue streets of Chefchaouen, located in Morocco’s Rift Mountain range.
• Learn to cook traditional Moroccan food at one of the riads in Marrakech.
• Explore the charming beach town of Essaouira and visit a vineyard.
• Relax in a traditional Hammam bath near one of the mosques.
• Catch a wave on the coast of Taghazoute, one of Morocco’s most popular surfing towns.
• Bring a good pair of hiking shoes and go trekking through the Atlas Mountains.
• Stay in a private riad and have your breakfast on a rooftop terrace.
• Marvel at the impressive Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
• Travel back in time to Morocco’s top Roman ruin site, Volubilis.

Best Places to Visit in Tanzania

Tanzania is the ultimate destination for trekkers. It’s home to the highest peak in Africa, which is the easiest of the seven summits to complete.

But it also boasts rich biodiversity both on land and in its waters, which makes it one of the most visited countries in the world and Africa.

• Summit the highest point in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Visit Serengeti National Park, Tanzania’s largest national park.
• Take a ferry over to Zanzibar and relax on the island’s pristine beaches or explore its underwater heritage.
• Go to Ngorongoro Conservation Area for wildlife viewings and to learn about humankind’s early beginnings at the Olduvai Gorge archaeological site .
• Watch the annual migration of over one million wildebeest inside the Serengeti National Park.
• Go diving at Mafia Island Marine Park and explore the excellent coral gardens.
• Avoid the crowds and visit the less popular Pemba Island and learn about the juju traditions of medicine and magic.
• Wander around Zanzibar’s ancient Stone Town, the world’s oldest functioning Swahili city.
• Climb Mount Meru, the second-highest mountain in Tanzania and one of the most spectacular volcanoes in Africa.
• Spend a night inside The Selous. It’s Africa’s largest reserve and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

So here’s a quick roundup of the top experiences in the rest of Africa that deserve a spot on any bucket list.

• Take a road trip to Lesotho and go snowboarding in the Mountain Kingdom.
• Make your way to Maletsunyane Falls in Lesotho, one of the highest single-drop waterfalls on the continent (it’s one of the best places to visit in Lesotho!).
• Witness over 10 million bats migrate to Kasanka National Park in Zambia.
• Go on a safari in South Luangwa National Park in Zambia – it’s home to the largest leopard population in Africa!
• Go on a sunset cruise along the Zambezi river.
• Marvel at Victoria Falls from either Zambia or Zimbabwe’s side.
• Bungee jump off Victoria Falls or tackle the Zambezi white water rapids.
• Swim in the world’s ultimate infinity pool, Victoria Fall’s Devils Pool .
• Marvel at one of humankind’s most impressive architectural feats, the Pyramids of Giza.
• Spend a day or two exploring the Egyptian town of Luxor and visiting it’s top archaeological sites like the Valley of the Kings.
• Head to Egypt’s coast and go diving in the Red Sea.
• Glide down the famous Nile River in a Felucca past relics of Egypt’s past.
• Hike to the summit of the Nyiragongo Volcano in the DRC and peer down into the bubbling lava lake.
• Plan a trip to Virunga National Park and visit the Congo’s critically endangered mountain gorillas.
• Experience Malawi’s musical side and attend the annual Lake of Stars Festival.
• Stay at Mumbo Island , one of the world’s top eco-resorts, located inside Lake Malawi National Park.
• Visit the famous Avenue of Baobabs in Madagascar .
• Explore the wrecks of pirate ships on the island of Ile Sainte Marie, off the coast of Madagascar.
• Take a day trip to Andasibe-Mantadia and see if you can spot all 11 species of lemur found inside Madagascar’s national park.
• See the unique Seven Coloured Earths in Mauritius.
• Hike through Black River Gorges National Park in Mauritius and try to spot one of the rarest birds in the world, the pink pigeon.
• Go on a mokoro safari across the Okavango Delta in Botswana .
• See the flamingo immigration at Nata Bird Sanctuary in Botswana.
• Go on a safari in Chobe National Park.

Did I miss out any of the best places to visit in Africa? Let me know what you think deserves a spot on anyone’s African bucket list below!

Psst…Want more African travel inspiration? Check out my other posts:

• 16 Unique Experiences You Need To Have in Africa
• 10 of the Cheapest African Countries to Visit 
• What It’s Like Staying on Mumbo Island in Malawi
• Travel To Rwanda: 15 Things You Need To Know
• The Ultimate South Luangwa National Park Travel Guide
• Visiting Kruger National Park: Everything You Need to Know

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

Reader Interactions

November 17, 2017 at 10:41 am

Just love this list. We have been in Victoria Falls, Namibia and South Africa. We would love to go to Tanzania:) But traveling in Africa sometimes is very expensive…

December 22, 2017 at 2:28 pm

This is a fantastic post with so many awesome ideas and experiences, many of which I’ve never heard of. In particular I really want to visit Madagascar, Morocco and Kenya. Thanks for the inspiration!

December 23, 2017 at 11:39 pm

That’s great to hear Mike!

June 9, 2019 at 12:02 am

Thanks for this. We have been to a number of the ones you mentioned but you highlighted some that we weren’t aware of and have added to our list. Travel never gets old.

June 24, 2019 at 2:48 pm

Agree! There’s always something new to discover 🙂

November 27, 2019 at 12:57 pm

Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most popular tourism destinations in Kenya- Africa

May 8, 2022 at 3:04 pm

One of the beautiful article come accross with. This will help us to plan our next adventure to Africa. Thank you for sharing.

October 12, 2023 at 5:16 pm

Kenya is in africa and you can visit places like Masai Mara for the big five safari we also have tree hotels in aberdares where you spot animals in your rooms.Also white beaches of diani for relaxation after the safari

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55 Best Things to Do in Africa – From Morocco to Mozambique!

My personal travel favourite.. the great continent of Africa still has a magical allure for most wanderers.

With so little of it well-explored, the diversity and the different sort of experience Africa can provide the adventurous with, is unparalleled in my opinion.

And all the more rich and alluring for it I say!

From the sandy Sahara of the continent’s north to the thick jungle of its central belt and finally down to its wild ocean charms as you venture towards its coast, whatever you’re into, Africa delivers.

It’s a continent I’m now planning my fifth journey to and every time I do make tracks here I’m just as excited as I was the first time.

For rarely is variety and vibrancy offered in such abundance, so whether it’s the north, the south, the east or the west you’re headed to, here’s my list off the 55 best things to do in Africa.

Oh, and if you’re looking for some great tours to enjoy in this continent, check out these brilliant Africa trip options .

The only thing left to also check is the security situation in each of the country’s you plan to visit. 

Situations change quickly across this continent, so it’s always best to check the most up to date info before you make any plans…

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#1 take a traditional mokoro ride through the okavango delta.

There’s no question that Botswana’s Okavango Delta is an enduring favourite among travellers, making visiting this vast wetland undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Africa.

From the number of animals you can get up close and personal with here, including hippos and lions, to rowing out in a traditional mokoro canoe to camp with local people for a number of nights, this huge floodplain is simply unforgettable.

Learn more about visiting the Okavango Delta in this post I wrote about the 10 things to know head of your trip there.

#2 Visit Luxor Temple at Night

Home to the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple, there’s no question this ancient city in the centre of Egypt is one of this country’s top destinations and heading here is definitely one of the best things to do in Africa for anyone even remotely interested in history.

Check out my recommended Luxor itinerary for a list of things you need to see and do here, but make sure you don’t miss the highlight – visiting Luxor Temple after dark when the beautiful illumination of this riverside beauty takes on a charm that’s remained unchanged for thousands of years.

#3 Cycle with Zebras in Hell’s Gate National Park

No trip to this continent would be complete without at least one safari experience, but if this is one of the best things to do in Africa you’ve already tried, why not sample one with a difference – namely on 2 wheels!

Yes, Kenya’s amazing Hells Gate National Park allows you to enjoy a cycle safari!

Thanks to the lack of predators here, you can safely cruise through this amazing geothermal landscape without the barrier of a vehicle as you wave at the zebra, giraffe and warthog you peddle past at close range!

Learn why I think Hell’s Gate National Park provides a totally unique safari.

#4 Hit the Coast in Sierra Leone

With some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, West Africa takes this continent’s crown for stunning stretches of sand.

And top of the list, it has to be the fantastic country of Sierra Leone!

Hit up this tropical beauty’s coast and prepare to chill in paradise-like surrounds while palm trees sway gently in the breeze.

Head to mainland Token Beach, or No 2 Beach, or else consider an escape to some of the nearby islands such as Banana Island or Tasso Island – check out the top 6 Sierra Leone beaches here .

There’s also some interesting, historic sights to see around Sierra Leone’s coastline too, including Bunce Island , which provides a chilling insight into the darkest practices of the colonial era’s slave trade.

#5 Walk in South Africa’s Drakensberg

One of the most diverse countries in the continent, South Africa’s varied topography really does set it apart.

I’ve previously compiled a list of the best 15 things to do in South Africa, but one of my favs on there has to be hiking in the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains.

An untouched altitude wilderness north of Durban, this national park provides spectacular walking opps along with some top camping possibilities that show nature at its best.

#6 Embrace the Boat Life in Benin

Over in West Africa, the tiny country of Benin’s most famous attraction is probably the stilt village of Ganvie.

Usually accessed as a day trip from the country’s capital, Cotonou, spend some time on the water here observing the local people go about their daily business via boats and checking out, or even staying in, some of the remarkable stilt-houses at the same time.

#7 Surf Morocco’s Atlantic Coast

There’s lots of spots to surf in South Africa, but with the threat of sharks a pretty real risk this way, why not keep it safe and surf further up the Atlantic Coast in the country of Morocco?

Travel to Agadir and then hit one of the many little surf towns around this coastal city.

Taghazout remains a firm favourite with plenty of surf camps available for those who aren’t experienced.

But whichever spot takes your fancy along this coastline, surfing is definitely one of the best things to do in Africa.

#8 Scramble to Ethiopia’s Remote Tigray Churches

And if you’re not out of the breath just thinking about all the physical activities on this list already, good, because there’s plenty more to come!

And here’s one that’s sure to get your adrenaline going, as well as take away your breath.

Yes involving a good hike, followed by some barefoot rock climbing without a harness and a final, treacherous balance along a thin cliff-face ledge, scrambling to Ethiopia’s remote Tigray Churches is one of my favourite memories from my time both in this country, as well as this continent.

Read about my experience here .

#9 Freshwater Dive in Lake Malawi

There’s definitely a certain novelty appeal in this one, but who can overlook trying some freshwater diving in Lake Malawi as one of the best things to do in Africa.

This huge lake, which almost consumes the whole country of Malawi, is the perfect spot to chill out for a few days, take a boat ride on, or just soak in the delightful friendliness of the Malawi people – they don’t call this the warm heart of Africa for nothing!

#10 Fulfil Your Desert Dreams in Namibia’s Sossusvlei

Cameras at the ready, this is perhaps the most spellbinding landscape in the whole African continent… and what a claim that is!

I’m a huge desert fan and honestly, with the stunning series of colours that make up this great Namibian scene, including the silhouettes of the ancient forest against the blue sky and orange sand dunes, I know this place is going to blow you away too!

No question, photographing Sossusvlei is definitely one of the top things to do in Africa and one of my 9 recommended places to visit in Namibia.

#11 Meet Penguins in South Africa

Who doesn’t love a p-p-p-enguin?

Even if you’re on the fence about this one now, you won’t be once you’ve met the cute African Penguins that call Boulders Beach in South Africa their home.

A great day trip from Cape Town , which you can combine with viewing the whole Cape of Good Hope Peninsula, this is one of the continent’s most unique animal encounters and certainly one of the best things to do in Africa too!

#12 Stroll Morocco’s Blu City, Chefchaouen

Made famous by Instagram for those weren’t in the know already, this is one definitely one of the prettiest cities in Africa with its charming blue streets, stairways and doors cracked ajar.

Wander around getting joyfully lost, sit in the Medina sipping delicious, fresh, orange juice or tackle some of the surrounding mountains in a super hiking adventure.

Whatever you get up to in Chefchaouen (and here’s my list of the best things to do there ), just make sure you visit it!

#13 Discover the Pyramids of Sudan

Ok, now we’re getting off the beaten track… and I like it!

I travelled through Sudan as a solo female back in 2018 and was simply blown away by the hospitality of the local people here.

Discovering ancient pyramids, older than those found in Egypt, lying semi-abandoned in the middle of the desert only added to the magic of visiting this seldom-explored country.

#14 Visit Senegal’s Saint Louis

One of Senegal’s UNESCo treasures, Saint Louis in the very north of the country is a crumbling charming city full of history and character.

While yet to enjoy the kind of polished charm of restored Stone Town in Tanzania, Saint Louis is full of authentic character.

Wandering the Old Town streets to check out the quirky galleries, shops and coffee shops, alongside the museums and sense faded glory, Saint Louis is one of the best places to visit in Senegal and West Africa more broadly.

One of Africa’s longest-standing democracies, Senegal is also one of the safest countries to visit in West Africa and its beautiful coastline further south in the Casamance region only adds to the appeal.

Learn more in the complete travel guide to Saint Louis I wrote after my travels there.

#15 Horse Ride in Lesotho

The landlocked country of Lesotho is a hidden gem in Southern Africa, but shouldn’t be overlooked because of its size.

Head here for a few days on your way to or from the Drakensberg Mountains to enjoy traditional homestays, unique local culture and some beautiful horse riding opportunities.

One that a lot of tourists miss when they travel southern Africa, visiting Lesotho is certainly one of the best things to do in Africa.

Discover more about travelling Lesotho as part of these 5 epic Southern Africa itineraries .

#16 Watch Bathing Elephants in Chobe National Park

Is there anything cuter than elephants washing themselves with their trunks, especially the babies?

If you agree the answer is no, then heading to the elephant heartland of this continent – namely Chobe River National Park in Botswana – is definitely one of the top things to do in Africa.

Enjoy a morning game drive to spot these beautiful grey giants, among a whole heap of other animals, or try a sunset evening game cruise along the river to see all the action from a delightfully different perspective.

#17 Cruise Along the Nile

People think it’s going to be expensive, but an iconic cruise up the River Nile (absolutely one of the best things to do in Africa) doesn’t have to be.

Learn how I scored a bargain Nile Cruise , otherwise, rest safe in knowledge that this adventure has to be on your bucket list!

#18 Climb Cape Town’s Table Mountain

Strap on those hiking boots, set out early and get ready for the climb of your life, as you prepare to scale Cape Town’s Table Mountain.

While you don’t have to take a guide for this, I do suggest downloading the version of maps.me before you set and ideally trekking with others just to be safe.

There’s loads of routes to choose from if you want to reach the top, but my best recommendation is the trail that starts in the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Once you reach the flat summit of this giant, you can then walk across it until you arrive at the cable car and enjoy the ride down!

Afterwards, check some of the other best things to do in Cape Town .

#19 Experience a Dawn Mass in Ethiopia’s Lalibela

There’s few experiences I’ve had in Africa more mesmerising than that of the dawn mass I witnessed in the UNESCO churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia.

Home to some of the oldest churches in the world and a place of deep significance for the Ethiopian Orthodox followers, this is a mystical, magical place it’s hard to put into words!

Learn more in this complete guide I wrote to visiting Lalibela.

#20 Snorkel with Whale Sharks in Mozambique

Yes, it’s true, you can swim with Whale Sharks in Mozambique… in fact, it’s one of the best places to do this in the world, with few other tourists and regular sightings at the right time of year.

To achieve this, head to Tofo – the main beachside resort in the province of Inhambane – for your best chance to snorkel with these amazing creatures.

Definitely one of the things to do in Africa and one of the best things to do in Mozambique .

#21 Be Amazed by Abu Simbel, Egypt

And now we head back up to the north of Africa, and the country of Egypt, to visit another of its amazing attractions that lies just south of the city of Aswan.

Yes, visiting the great temples of Abu Simbel is definitely one of the best things to do in Africa, as you honestly can’t fail to be amazed by these huge, ancient structures, especially when you realise they were painstakingly relocated brick by brick to make way for the flooding of Lake Nasser.

Most people make a day trip here around sunrise and then spend the rest of the time exploring Aswan’s other top 12 attractions .

#22 Bliss out at the Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Welcome to paradise is the sign they should definitely have posted somewhere as you enter the incredible Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique.

Most frequently accessed from the mainland city of Vilanculos, Bazaruto looks like every postcard of paradise you’ve ever seen, as these sandy islands seem to glisten like gems dropped into the turquoise tranquillity of the Indian Ocean.

Snorkelling and boat trips are the best way to experience this amazing place on a budget and are definitely one of the best things to do in Africa.

#23 Relive the Roman Empire in El Djem, Tunisia

Just south of the capital, Tunis, the town of El Djem is famous for its incredible Roman amphitheatre, which was once the centre piece of this empire’s most prosperous settlement.

Originally holding 35,000 people back in the day, this structure has been amazingly well-preserved and is now, unsurprisingly, UNESCO-listed.

Climb up the steps and enjoy the views from the top-tier of this truly impressive ancient theatre or wander the corridors to see where the gladiators prepared for their battles.

El Djem is one of my top recommended things to do in Tunisia. Check out the other 20 on the list here .

#24 See the Largest Seal Colony in the World

The Cape Cross Seal Colony in Namibia has to be seen (and smelt) to be believed!

The largest colony of seals in the world, there are literally thousands here basking in the sun and surfing the waves as far as the eye can see.

My top tip, take a sarong or scarf to cover your nose.. you’ll definitely thank me!

Check out my other 9 recommend things to do in Namibia while you’re there.

#25 Tick the Pyramids off your List

Come on, we all want to do a little bit of bucket list ticking when we head to Africa and it probably doesn’t get bigger than ticking the famous pyramids of Ancient Egypt off your list.

Head to Cairo and from there take a tour, an Uber or the metro to the other side of the Nile and the city of Giza where you’ll see these massive guys rising out of the desert!

Don’t miss the Sphinx if you head here either – there’s no question that combining such textbook historical sights into one day is one of the most incredible things to do in Cairo as well as across Africa.

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation soon to be situated nearby, is well worth a few hours of your time too.

#26 Safari in the Mighty Kruger

Does it get bigger and better than Kruger National Park in South Africa?

I’m not sure it does!

Providing one of the most budget-friendly safari opportunities on the continent, check out my guide about how to enjoy a Kruger Safari on the cheap if you want to visit it on a shoestring.

From the Big 5 to the beautiful landscape, Kruger is always a big hit that never fails to disappoint.

#27 Visit the Ancient Tanneries in Fez

Personally, I’m not a big fan of Marrakesh (controversial I know!) and way preferred the city of Fez (or Fes) during my time in Morocco.

More traditional, with a wonderful authentic-feeling Souk, even if you only head here for the day, you can’t miss the sight (or smell) of the iconic tanneries!

There’s 3 in the city, but the Chorara Tannery is the largest.

Built in the 11 th century, it’s been in continual operation since then, with very little having changed by way of processes or products since.

Climb to one of the lookout balconies if you want to pay a tip, or else stand at the base of tannery and take it all in for free!

Learn more about my fav things to do in Fez, plus 7 top tips for visiting this city, here .

#28 Spot the Big 5 in Etosha National Park

I know I just mentioned Kruger a few points ago as one of the best things to do in Africa, but if you want a safari experience that’s a little more off the beaten track, then it really is hard to beat the mighty Etosha National Park in Namibia.

Home to the big 5 and giving you one of the best chances to spot a highly endangered rhino, the unique landscape and setting of this national park only add to its allure.

Plus, you can stay right within Etosha, while lions, elephants, hyenas and a whole heap of other large mammals prowl around your campsite fence at night!

#29 Wine Tour in South Africa

It’s not all about wilderness and wildness when it comes to the best things to do in Africa y’know!

Nope, things here can be very sophisticated too!

Take wine tastings in the famous wine region of South Africa for example – pure delight!

Head to the towns of either Stellenbosch or Franschhoek (easy trips from Cape Town) for the best experiences going!

#30 Feel the Force at Victoria Falls

Come on, it’s one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World and one of the most impressive waterfalls on this planet!

Yup, no question feeling the force of the mighty Victoria Falls is one of the most amazing things to do in Africa and whether it’s from the Zimbabwe side or the Zambia side and whether you walk along it, swim in a pool at the top of it or bungee jump over it, this is a big hit wonder you can’t miss!

Discover these 8 best things to do at Victoria Falls for more travle inspo!

#31 Experience Sunrise at Burkino Faso’s Sindou Peaks

These amazing natural towers in the west of Burkino Faso are quite the landscape to behold thanks to their otherworldly appearance.

Trekking in and around these peaks is possible, but even the drive there will afford you some amazing photo opportunities, especially at sunrise, when the light bouncing off the paddy fields below is truly astounding.

#32 Camp in the Wild at South Luangwa National Park

A hit for Zambia on this list of the best things to do in Africa, South Luangwa National Park was definitely one of my favourite reserves across the continent.

Boasting fewer tourists and loads of animals, this is where I got my amazing leopard sighting and shot… no wonder it’s one of my favs!

Heading here to camp just outside the park will also mean you’ll be sharing the darkness with the hippos and the elephants who are definitely going to be munching their way through your campsite’s foliage of a night time!

#33 Visit the Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Some of the most impressive stone ruins in sub-Saharan Africa can be found in Zimbabwe – indicative of the highly sophisticated, ancient culture that existed here.

Still wonderfully off the beaten track, walking in and around these ruins is definitely one of the best things to do in Zimbabwe , as well as one of the top things to do in Africa.

#34 Walk with Rhinos in Eswatini

It doesn’t get much more special than walking with rhinos does it?

Well not in my opinion and that’s exactly one of the amazing things to do in Eswatini .

Landlocked within the borders of South Africa, this small African nation boasts many delightful national parks, but probably the Hlane Royal Park is the best one to visit thanks to how up close and personal you can get with some of the most endangered animals in the world.

#35 Skydive

I have to be honest, this personally isn’t one for me, but I know many people love it, so whether it’s over the deserts of Namibia or above the enchanting cityscape of Cape Town, there’s no question that, for many people, skydiving is definitely one of the best things to do in Africa.

Alternatively, there’s bungee-jumping to enjoy in Uganda and Victoria Falls or hot air balloon riding to enjoy in Kenya, Egypt or Tunisia!

#36 Check out Arty Grand Bassam in the Ivory Coast

Only a 40 minute drive from the economic capital, Abidjan, the town of Grand Bassam is a welcoming relaxing break from the bustle of the big city and is brimming with creativity and charm.

Check out the local street art, craft market and gorgeous French architecture amidst relaxed terraced cafes here.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this town, set on the Gulf of Guinea, also allows travellers the opportunity to enjoy the beach as well, just avoid swimming here as the strong currents are extremely dangerous.

#37 Spot Gelada Baboons in Ethiopia’s Simien Mountains

Did you know Ethiopia boasts the most UNESCO sites of any African nation?

And that the first destination to receive this accolade in the country was the marvellous Simien Mountains National Park?

Home to the endemic Gelada Baboon, otherwise known as the bleeding-heart monkey due to its magnificent markings, this high altitude park boasts epic hiking, top camping, amazing views and incredible wildlife spotting opps.

Don’t miss it!

Learn more in this ultimate guide to Ethiopia’s Simien Mountains National Park .

#38 Visit Rwanda’s Genocide Memorial

An incredibly dark period in the history of East Africa, the Rwanda Genocide is now renowned the world over for all the wrong reasons.

Paying witness to the horrific tragedy that befell this small African nation however, is hugely important in ensuring such a human disaster never happens again.

And nowhere is this more powerfully demonstrated than in Rwanda’s Genocide Memorial in the country’s capital, Kigali.

#39 See the Start of the Nile in Jinja, Uganda

Did you know that the Nile actually originates in 2 different areas?

While the Blue Nile begins in the city of Bahar Dar in Ethiopia , the White Nile begins in Jinja, Uganda, which also doubles as the adventure sport epicentre of East Africa.

So whether you want to just see the start of the Nile, or whether you want to raft, kayak or quadbike around this area, there’s loads of choices in this tourist-friendly town.

Check out this 2 day itinerary for Jinja in Uganda to learn more.

#40 Explore Algier’s Kasbah

Another UNESCO World Heritage site on this list, the walled Kasbah in Algeria’s capital is situated on top of what was once a Roman city and is now a picturesque place of winding alleys filled with traditional craftsmen and white-washed houses.

Overlooking the Mediterranean, this cultural icon has several mosques and a historic palace, but is now sadly under threat from overpopulation and neglect.

Nevertheless, witnessing such an important slice of history is definitely one of the best things to do in Africa.

#41 Enjoy a Sunset Cruise at Lake Naivasha, Kenya

Kenya is full of amazing safaris and a beautifully sedate experience can be found in the west of the country on Lake Naivasha.

Here, sunset boat trips offer wonderfully relaxed opportunities to spot hippos and birdlife in this fabulous watery ecosystem.

#42 Meet the Masai

And while we’re on the subject of Kenya, there’s no way we can overlook a safari in the Masai Mara as one of the best things to do in Africa.

Probably my favourite safari experience in Africa , and that’s quite the claim, the Masai Mara has it all – the Big 5, a fascinating human culture and a beautiful landscape to boot.

It’s also quite a small park and therefore feels quite manageable and accessible too.

Trips here normally depart from Nairobi and I’d allow at least 2 nights / 3 days to soak in all this park has to offer.

#43 Enjoy Paradise on a Zanzibar Beach

If you’re a regular reader of this blog you’ll definitely know that I’m pretty partial to a good beach or 2 and I definitely found my idea of heaven in Zanzibar.

This large island off the coast of Tanzania is lapped by the Indian Ocean (one of the favourite oceans FYI!) and the beguiling turquoise colour of this water, contrasted against the white stretches of sand and swaying palm trees, puts the beaches of Zanzibar in another league!

I love the coastal resort of Paje myself, but there’s also some beautiful beaches to be found in the north of Zanzibar too.

#44 Game Drive in Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

And sticking with the Tanzania theme (we really are hitting the big daddies now on this list of the best things to do in Africa) we can’t not mention the epic Ngorongoro Crater.

Normally combined with a safari trip to the Serengeti, this huge former volcano crater makes for an insanely brilliant one day game drive as you cruise down into and around what is essentially a huge hole in the ground filled with animals!

#45 Wander the Crumbling Glory of Stone Town

And now we come to the final 10 on this mammoth list of the best things to do in Africa and whose going to make the final cut I hear you cry!

Well first in, and unquestionably one of the best historical sights in Africa in my opinion, it’s the amazing UNESCO-listed capital of Stone Town.

Situated on the island of Zanzibar, you can’t miss the crumbling beauty and atmospheric feel of this old trading port, nor the great food markets .

Check out my list of the best things to do in Stone Town for more ideas about how to spend your time here.

#46 Trek with Gorillas in Uganda

And now we head back to East Africa to talk about one of the best things to do in Africa that’s not easy on the budget, but is big on the memory stakes!

Yes gorilla trekking in Uganda (which is the cheapest and safest country to experience it in) is simply unforgettable as you hike through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (even the name is memorable) to see these amazing creatures in the wild.

Breathtaking in every way, this is 100% worth the splurge!

Learn more in this ultimate guide to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda I wrote.

#47 Get Your Eco Game on in Kilifi, Kenya

Kilifi is a lovely little town on the Kenyan coast that is great if you want to relax for a few days and get off the beaten track.

The main attraction for tourists however really is Distant Relatives – an amazing permaculture backpackers come eco-village, which is the perfect spot to make friends and have fun at for a few days… or longer!

#48 Step Back in Time on Lamu Island

And just further up the Kenyan coast lies the tiny island of Lamu.

Like stepping back in time, this old Swahili area doesn’t seem to have changed much in hundreds of years and from the old houses to the donkeys that make up the main source of traffic here, this is a cultural feast and the perfect place to get away from it all!

#49 Stay on a Houseboat at Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe

Heading back down to Zimbabwe now, along with Victoria Falls and the Great Ruins, you can’t miss out on the opportunity to spend a few days relaxing on a houseboat in the beautiful setting of Lake Kariba.

If you’re into your fishing, this is the spot to try it, otherwise swing in a hammock, crack open a beer and take in the sights, sounds and smells of sub-Saharan Africa at its best!

#50 Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro

And at number 50 on this list of the best things to do in Africa, it’s one that simply can’t be missed… and that is climbing Kilimanjaro.

Known as the ceiling of Africa, this towering giant lies in Tanzania and definitely requires some preparation given the gear you’ll need and the altitude levels you’ll experience.

Guided tours are a must, as is a serious level of training, but get yourself organised and this will prove amazing beyond words!

#51 Scuba Dive the Red Sea

It’s the mother of all scuba mothers, yes the red sea is something of a Holy Grail for divers and there’s no question, you should try it, or at least snorkel it, if you’re in Egypt.

You can access the underwater fun in this country via the mainland coastal enclave of Hurghada or the resort hub of Sharm El Sheikh, which is on the Sinai Peninsula, but my favourite spot is Dahab.

Also situated on the Sinai, just a short distance from Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab is a chilled-out village loved by budget travellers.

Its mega-relaxed vibes are the perfect antidote to chaotic Cairo and I’m warning you now that most travellers tend to extend their stay here… you have been warned!

And why not check out St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mt. Sinai while you’re there?

These 2 top Sinai attractions can be easily reached from Dahab care of this tour .

#52 Climb an Active Volcano

If climbing an active volcano doesn’t sound like one of the best things to do in Africa, then perhaps we should part ways now!

Depending on the security situation, you can enjoy such an activity in the Democratic Republic of Congo, or perhaps slightly safer, is heading to the Erta Ale volcano in Ethiopia’s Danakil Depression.

Otherworldly, doesn’t even begin to describe this landscape (one of the hottest and driest places on earth), so check out the article I wrote about my time in the Danakil Depression if that sounds like fun to you!

#53 Visit the Traditional Communities of the Omo Valley

And continuing on with Ethiopia, heading to the Southern region of the Omo Valley will after the Danakil Depression will show you just how diverse this country is.

With over 20 different indigenous communities still living in this small valley region, this is one of the most culturally diverse places on the planet and a fascinating insight into traditional ways of living in this part of Africa.

#54 Cruise to Robben Island, South Africa

And in at #54 on this list of the best things to do in Africa, we return to South Africa and the prison where Nelson Mandela spent the majority of his incarcerated years.

As such a key figure in African politics, you can’t miss the opportunity to witness the horrific conditions Mandela and his comrades endured and a tour to Robben Island is certainly eye-opening in this regard.

Led by former inmates, tours here are incredibly poignant and shouldn’t be missed.

Not to cheapen their significance in any way, but the boat ride over to Robben Island and the stunning views of Cape Town it affords, only adds to the experience.

Check out this fab tour , which includes your ferry ticket and a township tour, or this epic helicopter ride over Robben Island for a truly unforgettable experience.

#55 Visit Gambia’s National Sanctuaries

And finally, we return to West Africa for #55 and the smallest African nation of them all.

Yes Gambia is usually known for its package tourism and great beaches, but take some time if you do come here to also explore the amazing wildlife sanctuaries this country offers too.

From the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project in River Gambia National Park to Bijilo Forest Park, Abuko Nature Reserve and Makasutu Culture Forest, there’s plenty to choose from here, and all offer some great wildlife encounters that include several monkey species, birds, crocs, snakes and bushbucks that can be spotted both from traditional canoes or special walkways.

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Mini Travel Guide to Africa

When to Visit?

As a huge continent, it’s impossible to give an overall best time to visit Africa, so I’ve split this question down in sub-regions.

When it comes to North Africa, I highly recommend visiting during the spring and autumn months, ie. April to May and September to October, so that the weather is pleasant enough for sightseeing.

In West Africa, the high season runs from December through February, when the region generally experiences its lowest rainfall and humidity – definitely a good idea to visit at this time!

In East Africa, visiting during the long dry season is a great idea. In general, this runs between the months of July and September and also conveniently aligns with the Great Migration too. the short rainy season in November and December can be another good time to visit this part of the continent.

And finally, we come to Southern Africa.

If you’re heading to Cape Town, I’d visit between November and February, but for Namibia and Botswana, the best months are May through October when it’s cooler and less humid.

How to Travel to Africa?

It’s likely you’ll fly to this continent and, as always, I use Skyscanner to find the best deals.

Best Tours in Africa

If you’re interested in an unforgettable, well-priced tour across Africa, with guides you can trust, or a self-drive trip organised by a great company, then email me at [email protected] and I’ll send you my top recommendations – simple!

Alternatively, I’m currently offering my readers an exclusive discount on all Absolute Africa tours , meaning you can now travel even more in the amazing regions of southern and east Africa for even less! Simply send this top African overland tour company an email to [email protected] , quoting the discount code BWSP, and start planning your incredible trip with them today!

Otherwise, if it’s strictly safari tours you’re looking for, check out these top picks .

Travel Insurance for Africa

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

6 Packing Essentials for Africa

#1 Swimwear and Sarong – One World Sarongs are always my go to and a must when you hit the beautiful beaches across Africa.

#2 Lonely Planet Guidebook – Their Africa edition is excellent and very helpful when it comes to a broad range of travel tips, maps and recommended itinerary routes.

  #3 Insect Repellent and Anti-Malarials – I recommend a 30% DEET repellent for Africa and anti-malarials if you’re travelling in at risk countries – although please always consult the advice of a medical professional before any travels to this part of the world.

#4 World Power Adapter – There are at least 3 different types of adapters used across this continent, so make sure you come prepared with a Skross World Adapter at the ready.

#5 Camera and Lens – I love my Sony A6000 mirrorless , and have used it to capture the beauty of this continent and beyond.

#6 Good Sandals – You’ll live in sandals in most of Africa and I would never travel anywhere now without my trusty pair of Arizona Birkenstocks !

Travel Money in Africa

When it comes to paying for things across this continent, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card abroad, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold! Grab yours here .

eSIM in Africa

I highly recommend aloSIM for the job across much of this continent.

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So there it is folks, the 55 best things to do in Africa.

Which is top of your bucket list?

And which have you crossed off already?

Tell me all in the comments box below…

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

6 thoughts on “ 55 Best Things to Do in Africa – From Morocco to Mozambique! ”

This is making us want to visit Africa again so much. We loved Biljo Forest in Gambia when we went, the monkeys roaming around were the sweetest.

Wonderful news! So delighted the article is spurring you on. The Gambia sounds fab. Who doesn’t love a monkey spotting?! Thanks for taking the time to comment, Best, Steph 🙂

I’d love to scuba dive the Red Sea. I would also love To Skydive.

2 great travel options Kailey! Happy planning, Steph 🙂

Is the code for Absolute Africa tours still valid?

It sure is Monica. Please send them an email and quote BWSP. Happy travels, Steph 🙂

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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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South africa.

 With such diverse and exciting attractions to offer, South Africa provides a plethora of things to do and natural beauty to admire. It is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers as well as adventure junkies. Diversity doesn’t flourish only generally over here, but also specifically in terms of cuisines, landscapes, adventures and many more. Thus, South Africa has people from all over the world visiting the country all through the year. The tourist developments in the country have also been on the rise to keep up with the incoming demand. The people of the nation are however, doing a great job by preserving the nature consequently while working on the developments. Hence, the tourist places in South Africa

South Africa is the perfect country for those looking for a nature retreat and also for those adventure junkies wanting a thrilling surprise. While nature lovers can explore amongst valleys, hill peaks, islands and a lot more scenic beauty, adventure junkies can experience adrenaline rushing activities like bungee jumping, white shark diving and so on. Wildlife in South Africa is incomparable to any other place in the world given its diversity and numbers. Not only people with keen interest visit these wildlife nature parks, but people also visit to study the diverse species. It is also known to host the big 5, which is a main attraction among the wildlife there. The country is home to several spots recognised and rewarded by the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

With diversity being its key highlight in all fields, there is something there to offer and excite everyone visiting this country and that is why it makes it one of the best places to visit by offering the best tourist places in South Africa, for your holiday. Here are a list of frequently asked questions and answers to them to make your planning and executing as easy as possible and to ensure you don’t miss out on anything.

Top Experiences To Do in South Africa

Mauritius tourism is like a breath of fresh air in your vacation experience of the enchanting tropical paradise. It is an island country surrounded by  the Indian Ocean on all sides, has an affluent and diverse ecosystem with dense and lush forests, white-sand beaches fringed with swaying palm-trees, volcanic mountains, tea plantations, waterfalls, islets and many other points of interest that lure countless holidaymakers here all year long. To compliment the luxuries of Mauritius, you should book a stay at some of the world-class accommodations like the numerous 5-star resorts and beachfront properties and take the trip up twofold.  To add to the beauty of Mauritius is also the maritime tropical climate with warm and balmy summers, and cool and pleasant winters. Both the seasons are almost alike with the only difference being humidity and rainfall, or the lack thereof. With such comfortable weather conditions one can indulge in a plethora of fun adventure activities that are available here. You can see the underwater world by going for snorkeling , scuba-diving , sea walk, dolphin watching etc., or conquer the rugged and untamed terrains with skydiving, wildlife safaris, mountain-climbing, treks. Now whether you are a romantic couple/honeymooners immersed in love, or a travel enthusiastic family, or a group of friends looking to make memories with your gang, Mauritius is for you all. There are stunning monuments and landmarks like the Black River Gorges National Park , Port Louis etc. that would make for the perfect addition to the family trip, serene beaches and islands such as Ile Aux Cerfs, Grand Baie, Trou Aux Biches that can become a lover's hideout, as well as many exciting restaurants, cafés, markets, and nightlife outlets where you can experience the local lifestyle at the fullest. So, if all this is something that appeals to you, then for your upcoming holiday, make it to Mauritius.

Top Experiences To Do in Mauritius

Tourist places in Egypt comprises of temples, tombs, vast tracts of desert, the beautiful Nile River, historic treasures, ancient monuments etc. These places together manage to attract many tourists from all over the world every year. But well, it is not correct to give these places alone the credit for maintaining Egypt tourism. There are equal amount of fun activities for beach bums in Egypt as well a who can head to the Sinai to soak up the sun. Or can even engage in watersports like diving, sailing, surfing etc. On the other hand, archaeology fans can have a field day in Luxor. Cairo, one of the main cities is the megalopolis that can't be beaten for city seekers. Whereas, Siwa oasis and the southern town of Aswan offer a slice of the slow pace lifestyle of the countryside life. Egypt has so much for travelers to see and do that nobody can go back disappointed. It is the perfect country for a mix of activities combining culture, adventure, and relaxation. Here, the pyramids and the other Egyptian ruins are some of the most ancient remnants of human civilization. Nile River divides the country into two unequal segments that are the Eastern area and the Western desert. The climate of Egypt is of course, hot, dry or sunny or even a mixture of all three. As it is a deserted area, the temperature varies as per the seasons and you can experience extreme heat as well as winters. People of this country have proudly managed to maintain their culture and ethnicity who speak Egyptian Arabic. Their religion is not just about following but it is a way of life for them and majority indeed follow it wholeheartedly. Tourist places in Egypt are worth visiting that lets you leave the modern world behind and enjoy the naturally deserted retreat kingdoms of ancient culture and lifestyle.

Top Experiences To Do in Egypt

Located in East Africa, Kenya is a place full of diverse and rich species of both Flora and Fauna. This coastline state lies next to the Indian Ocean and houses some of the unique aquatic animals. Kenya is known in the world for its annual wildebeest migration. People fly in from all around the globe to witness the majestic birds and animals, take photographs, enjoy safaris and have an adventurous time. For all those adventure junkies out there, Kenya should be among the top places they must visit as the tourist places in Kenya will leave you awestruck . One can go trekking to enjoy the view of the enormous yet beautiful mountains, especially the 5895 meters tall Mount Kilimanjaro. One can go on a variety of safaris to enjoy the wildlife and bask in the beauty of nature. The Maasai Mara Reserve and the Amboseli National Park are the busiest places in Kenya as they house some of the best species like lions, tigers, elephants and much more.

One can even enjoy the serene environment that is found along the coast. Kenya is also famous for providing Balloon Safari that is basically roaming around in a hot air balloon and enjoying the peaceful landscapes and the soft breeze. Since Kenya is full of grasslands it is also known for providing best golf courses and hence is perfect for a golf vacation. It has the perfect setting for anyone to relax and interact closely with nature. Being set in Africa, Kenya is also a home to multifarious tribes, so one can enjoy tribal dances, tribal food and even camp with them to get the authentic feel. The tourist places in Kenya range from relaxing activities like sitting by the beach or a spa, to adventurous activities like trekking, camping, safaris and so on. Kenya provides a complete package for all types of tourists.

Top Experiences To Do in Kenya

There are plenty of tourist places in Seychelles  as it is an archipelago of islands containing around 115 granite and coral islands, located close to Africa situated on the western part of the Indian Ocean. It is a land full of pristine beauty and a luxurious destination. It lies east of Kenya, beside the equator. They have adequately protected land areas, and many atolls and islands support marine sanctuaries. Seychelles is a stunning, unspoiled country with countless tropical islands. It has spectacular boulder-brew beaches, exquisite natural beauty, clear turquoise water, thriving coral reefs, and many more. It is a hub of endemic wildlife spotting and ecotourism, containing an incredible flora and fauna collection. You also get to see exotic birds, trees, and marine life. It is a perfect place for solo as well as a family trip or enjoying holiday with friends; the location will provide you something every time. The three most famous attraction places where people visit in flocks are Praslin , La Digue , and Mahe . However, do not miss out on seeing the country's capital Victoria and Seychelles Creole cuisine. Apart from these, visit the jaw-dropping Curieuse Island, Morne Seychellois National Park, the famous Bird Island, and the Anse Lazio, popular for its soft blond sand and hiking trail. Speaking of hiking trails, there are many more activities to do in Seychelles . If you are an adrenaline seeker, you will enjoy diving, rock climbing, surfing, snorkeling, and sailing. Also, go Island hopping, photographing the uniqueness of flora and fauna, and encompass the richest fishing ground worldwide. The place is perfect for lying down on the white sand beach and taking sunbathes as Seychelles is blessed with a warm climate throughout the year. It is a hotbed for water, so you don't have to think twice before starting your sports activities. As it is near the equator, the temperature remains around 24 to 32 degrees.

Top Experiences To Do in Seychelles

Morocco is an astounding, eyes open taste of what really is exquisite with the snake conjurers and charmers with bazaars brimming with hoards of valuables along with endless glasses of mint tea. The country also means an adventure into few of the most captivating sceneries o North Africa with the rocky heights of the Atlas Mountains and the desert right at the doorstep.   

Many revellers regard Morocco as a journey into a timeless and an amicable world of colourful painted towns, cute coastal villages which cling to the remote outposts and hillsides that are guarded by the whimsical abode citadels. This alluring country is a potpourri of the Arab and African worlds and is deeply steeped in the age-old customs. There is no element of surprise in Morocco being celebrated by writers and artists for many many decades. It still continues to enchant anyone who comes here for a lax holiday.

With an array of beaches, mouth watering local dishes, abundant wildlife and bird species, phenomenal opportunities for water sports, there is no wonder why Morocco seems to be the most sought after tourist attraction by a number of people. So, next time you are planning a holiday, you know where to head to.

Top Experiences To Do in Morocco

Zimbabwe is a South African country that has seen umpteen political and economical upheavals over a long period of time. It is now open to tourism and is a popular destination for adventure and wildlife. There are many nature sights like lakes, waterfalls, and mountains that can be enjoyed while your stay here. There are many landscape spots, lush highlands, exotic trees not found anywhere else, archaeological sites, and picturesque towns that can be visited. The locals are very friendly but the tourists have to beware as there are many challenges they could face. The locals have shown maximum resilience to the hardship the country has faced overtime. You can enjoy the view of parks, reserves; go camping as there are umpteen camping sites here. This is a home to many species of wildlife and birds. Water and adventure sports are in humongous variety. Within this landlocked country there are many things to do and places to visit. All the tourists must and should know of the travelling dos and don’ts when you visit this country, else, it could cost you heavily. There are hardly any nightclubs, but, you can enjoy your drinks and food at most of the luxurious stays in the cities of this country.

Top Experiences To Do in Zimbabwe

Formerly known as the Malagasy Republic, this island country is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Africa. Sprawling across the Indian ocean, the country comprises the main island of Madagascar, along with several small peripheral islands. The enormous size of Madagascar makes it the fourth largest island country in the world, full to the brim with a sense of mystery and beauty. Littered with white sand beaches, vibrant rainforests and some of the most stunning views of wildlife, Madagascar is one of the most beautiful countries of Africa. One visit to the island country is enough to be wowed by the biodiversity spectrum of Madagascar. The country serves as a cultural melting point as well, thanks to the number of immigrants who have called the island home over the years. One of the best ways to explore the wealth of Madagascar’s nature is to make your way through the marvelous natural attractions here- from the expansive national parks at Masoala and Ranomafana, to the striking Avenue of the Baobabs, the beauty of Madagascar promises to leave you spellbound and wanting for more. Alternatively, you may choose to make your way to the stunning bays on a lazy day, and enjoy a laid back afternoon by the emerald blue waters of Nosy Be or Ile Sainte Maire. Leisure mongers and adventure enthusiasts alike will find a perfect vacation in Madagascar. Whether it is hiking across the canyons at the Tsingy National Park or swimming with the sharks at Nosy Be, each day in the country vows to be a happening one. The stunning sanctuaries and national parks also serve as ideal locations for family picnics and wildlife tours. Influenced by the tropical winds, Madagascar experiences temperate climate throughout the year. The weather in the country remains warm and rainy between September to April, and remains cooler between May to mid-September.

Best of South Africa

Officially known as the Republic of Namibia, the country of Namibia nestles on the southwestern coast of Africa. The country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean towards the west, and by the Zambezi River on the north side. The name of the country derives from the Namib Desert, which is the oldest desert in the world, and lines Namibia along the Atlantic coast. The stunning landscape of Namibia is best experienced through your own eyes- the aching beauty of its sheer barrenness, of the fossilized mountains and empty coastlines, must be experienced to be believed. Although sparsely populated, the country is a perfect holiday destination for tourists with a penchant for grandiose landscapes, untouched sand dunes and historic rock carvings. From the ancient rock carvings at Twyfelfontein to the picture-perfect sand dunes of Sossusvlei, the natural attractions at Namibia promise to take your breath away. For a taste of the country’s natural wealth, you may also choose to add the Etosha National Park and the Skeleton coast in your list of top tourist places in Africa. While in Namibia, do not forget to visit the salt pans at Walvis Bay. Apart from its whale-spotting opportunities, the Bay offers the unique sight of bright pink lagoons, home to migrant flamingoes throughout the year. Adventure enthusiasts may also try their hand at dune climbing and camping in the open deserts of Spitzkoppe. To add a zing to your visit, make sure to pose along the Tropic of Capricorn sign here, marking the very spot along which the latitude passes. Namibia experiences a subtropical desert-type climate, characterized by considerable differences between daytime and nighttime temperatures. The winter months between May to October generally experience dry weather, while the summer months between November to April experience frequent showers.

With its undulating grasslands, frozen rivers and marvelous forests, the landlocked country of Botswana is southern-Africa’s pride. The name of the country literally translates to ‘the land of the Tswana’, referring to the dominant ethnic group of the land. The epical beauty of Botswana resides in its sprawling savannas and lush green deltas. The stunning sand dunes of the vast Kalahari, and vibrant pine flats lined by baobab trees make Botswana one of the top places to visit in Africa. The sparsely populated country prides in its natural wealth, and the best way to explore this wealth is to visit the various National Parks here. From the wild dogs at the Moremi Reserve to the dry grasslands of Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park, the natural resplendence of the country is bound to leave you spellbound. While in Botswana, make it a point to take a trip to the granite island of Kubu, known for its salt flats and stunning views of the sunset. While in Botswana, do not miss out on having a caving expedition at the Tsodilo Hills, fondly dubbed as the Louvre of the Desert. A designated UNESCO Heritage Site, the caves boast of the biggest collection of rock paintings in the world, with nearly 4,500 engravings on their walls. To get a taste of the authentic African life here, make sure to take a mokoro ride along the deltas of Okavango, or interact with the tribal Bushmen there. Adventure enthusiasts travelling to Botswana may also try their hand at fly fishing, or take a horseback safari along the desserts of the country. Being a semi-arid country, Botswana experiences high temperatures and low rainfall throughout the year. The summer months, between November to May, experience erratic rainfall. Winter in Botswana spans between June to October, and remains dry and warm.

Top Experiences To Do in Botswana

Divided by the Great Rift Valley, this landlocked Ethiopia in eastern Africa is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa. Dating back to about 3 million years, Ethiopia is known for its ancient culture and historic significance. Home to a number of different UNESCO Heritage Sites, Ethiopia is one of the most visually stunning places to visit in Africa. From the rugged peaks of the Simien Mountains to the beautiful alpine forests in Bale, or even the kaleidoscopic sandstone cliffs at Tigray- Ethiopia offers some of the most remarkable landscapes in the world. While in Ethiopia, do make it a point to visit the various natural attractions there. From the stunning Blue Nile falls, with its mist-laden gorges, to the magnificent Erta Ale volcano with its lava lakes- the options here are endless. Tourists with a penchant for art and culture may also choose to explore the ancient Aksumite obelisks in Aksum, the holy sights of Gondar, or the revered city of Harar. Some of the best things to do in Ethiopia include exploring the rock-strewn Orthodox Churches in Lalibela, or touring the ancient castles in the city of Gondar. Tourists with a taste for adventure may opt for the accommodative wildlife tours offered by the Bale Mountain National Park, or even attempt hiking the towering mountains of Simien. To get a taste of the local culture here, make sure to take a tour of the capital city of Addis Ababa, or interact with the ancient tribal population in the lower Omo Valley. Owing to its diverse terrain, the country experiences a diverse range of temperatures. While the Danakil Depression, which is regarded as the hottest place on Earth, experiences high and dry climate throughout the year, the more elevated regions of Lalibela and Gondar remain cool at all times. Generally speaking, the best time to visit Ethiopia is between the months of November to February, when the weather remains sunny and the average temperature here remains around 25 degree Celsius.

Perhaps it is the marriage of its innately synchronized wilderness, with the eccentricity of a refined cultural heritage, that makes the dichotomous landscape of Tanzania, truly one-of-a-kind. One word. Wildlife. The Tanzanian ecosystem is dominated by the world’s most exotic animals. Be it the zebras and giraffe, or the deer and the buffalo herds, or the feline lions and tigers, Tanzania is teeming with fauna. Its Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, boast the most expansive lands and the largest wildebeest migration. Also, these areas are ideal for birding as the country is home to birdlife of over 1400 species! These birding spots are counted among as the best tourist places in Tanzania.

The people of rural Tanzania, called the Masai, are a distinct tribe. Adorned in the most fashionable drapes and rustic accessories, the Masai people are admired the world over for their sense of style and ways of life. Famous for its fragrant spice markets, its heritage town of Stone and its pristine, picture-perfect beaches, Zanzibar, is a tourist haven. It offers one of the best tourist places in Tanzania. The restaurants here have a unique vibe of their own and as a matter of fact, are some of the most sought after eateries in the continent of Africa! Which brings us to the food. The Swahili cuisine, is Manna. Some dishes are simple, while others are layered in their gastronomic glory, but the flavourful food of Tanzania is unrivalled by another African cuisine. Finally, Mount Kilimanjaro is to Tanzania what the Himalayas are to India and Nepal. Its sweeping views, its terrain conducive to climbing and its wildlife, make Kilimanjaro another destination as popular as the Serengeti.

Top Experiences To Do in Tanzania

Nigeria is an African Country that is located on the Gulf of Guinea. It is officially known as the Federal Republic of Nigeria with Niger in the north, Cameroon in the east, Chad in the northeast, and Benin in the west. It has 36 states and the capital city is Abuja. Nigeria is home to some of the wonderful natural landmarks and wildlife reserves. You will also come across zillions of protected areas, cascading waterfalls, dense rainforests, savanna and rare primate habitats. Dotted with some of the popular tourist attractions like Osun Sacred Grove known for its rainforest, Jazz Hole which is a popular  book and record store, and many others. While Olumo Rock has a rich history and great spiritual significance, the Nike Art Gallery is full of contemporary and traditional Nigerian arts. You can also visit Suzanne Wenger's House which is a well decorated tall Gothic place and Lekki Conservation Centre which is very much popular for its Canopy walkways. While visiting Nigeria for a holiday vacation, you can visit Ikogosi Warm Springs, collect Artsy Decor and Souvenirs, go to Calabar Carnival, climb the Magical Idanre Hills, check out Bukas, Snack Stands and Joints, shop at the Traditional Markets, and witness the Creative Arts. Nigeria has got a varied landscape and it mainly has a tropical rainforest climate with an annual rainfall in the range of 60 to 80 inches. It has a variable dry and rainy session depending on the locations. However, it is hot and wet for most of the time. The average temperature range of Nigeria remains in between 18.45 to 36.9 degree celsius all through the year. 

Top Experiences To Do in Nigeria

Uganda happens to be a landlocked country located in East Africa. Officially called the Republic of Uganda, it is boarded by Kenya on the east,  South Sudan to the north, Democratic Republic of Congo on the west, Tanzania to the south, and Rwanda to the southwest. Adorned with diverse landscapes like the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and immense Lake Victoria, the country is home to abundant wildlife. Heading over to this country, you will be able to sight some of the rare species of flora and fauna. Some of the most sought after attractions that you must visit during your trip are Bwindi Impenetrable National Park which is considered to be the home to almost half the world’s mountain gorillas, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary which is a shelter to more than 40 orphaned or rescued chimpanzees, and Queen Elizabeth National Park which is popular for its diverse wildlife. You can also visit Igongo Cultural Centre which  features the best museum displays in Uganda, Uganda Wildlife Education Centre which is a world-class animal refuge, and Budongo Forest Reserve which is popular for its virgin tropical forest While spending your holiday vacation in Uganda, you can think to indulge in some of the wildlife encounters like trek to the Gorillas, hike to see Chimpanzees and hang with elephants at Queen Elizabeth National Park. If you are a nature lover, you can marvel at Murchison Falls, raft in Jinja, see the Start of the Nile, and experience Immense Beauty at Lake Bunyonyi. If you are an adventure lover, then you can go Whitewater Rafting on the Nile river. Uganda has got a warm tropical climate with the months from December to February being the hottest. The average temperature of Uganda remains in the range of 25 - 29 degree celsius in the summer season and in the winter season the temperature ranges in between 17 - 18 degrees celsius. 

Nestled on the Great Rift Valley in South Africa, this landlocked country sits at the point of confluence of the African Great Lakes region and East Africa. One of Africa's smallest countries, Rwanda is characterized by its vast stretches of Savannah and the several lakes that occupy different parts in the country. Also known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills", the savannah-clad Rwanda is teeming with natural splendor.  The undulating cliffs, thick forests and scenic valleys in the rural country offer some of the most splendid sights in Africa. From the high-altitude tropical rainforest in Nyungwe to the lush green jungles at Vulcans National Park, Rwanda's verdant attractions will leave you breathless. Another significant place to visit in Rwanda is the exploding lake Kivu, which is one of the only three exploding lakes in the world, making it among the tourist places in Africa. History buffs travelling to Rwanda may also choose to visit the Genocide Memorial at Kigali Memorial Centre, that pays tribute to the people lost during the Rwandan Genocide of 1994 through pictures and well-preserved artefacts. A number of offbeat and fun activities in Rwanda promise to keep you on your feet throughout your trip. For a truly unique experience, try your hand at Gorilla tracking in the Virunga mountains. While at Virunga, don't forget to sit in at an Intore dance performance, which is a tribal dance routine performed by Rwandan natives at the base of gorilla tracking. For a taste of adventure, tourists may choose to take a hike on the volcanoes in the Musanze region, or even enjoy a laid-back kayaking expedition in Lake Kivu. Due to its high elevation, Rwanda experienced pleasant weather throughout the year. The rainy season in Rwanda lasts between March to May, while the rest of the year remains dry.

Top Experiences To Do in Rwanda

Best Attractions to Visit in Africa

Maasai mara national reserve.

Maasai Mara is one of the most incredible game reserve of the world. Nestled on the border of Tanzania, Mara is the northern extension of the Serengeti. It makes for the wildlife corridor between the two countries Tanzania and Kenya.

Best of Kenya

Giraffe Manor

Serengeti National Park

Matobo National Park

South Luangwa National Park

Selous Game Reserve

Gashaka Gumti National Park

Tarangire National Park

Ruaha National Park

Best of Zambia

Katavi National Park

Lake Mutirikwi National Park

Okomu National Park

Cross River National Park

Lake Manyara National Park

Underwater Waterfall

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

Best of Botswana

Victoria falls.

Cape Verde Archipelago

Lekki Conservation Centre

Virunga National Park

African Renaissance Monument

Garden Route Trail Park

Best of Tanzania

Atlas Mountain

Zambezi River

Table Mountain

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Lake Malawi

Grand Baie Mauritius

Top Experiences To Do in Grand Baie Mauritius

Eden Island

Emerging as one of the best tourist destinations in Seychelles, Eden Island is a paradise for all adventure enthusiasts and sea lovers. It is located just 3.5 km away from Victoria, the capital of Seychelles and features a perfect blend of fun, thrills, and indulgence. A man-made marvel, it comprises a deep water marina, white beaches, exotic marine life, lip-smacking local food, luxurious properties, nightlife, shopping, and much more. It is also famous for being the place where even foreigners can buy a piece of land and get a nationality without much hassle.

Bird Island

Bird Island is formerly known as the Ile Aux Vaches due to the dugongs that once thrived in the waters of this region between 1896 to 1906. It is the northernmost island of the Archipelago of Seychelles spreading over 94 sq. km. Earlier the island was a prime site for coconut plantation and cultivation of cash crops viz. papaya and cotton.

Best of Zimbabwe

Black river gorges national park.

Matusadona National Park

Tsavo National Park

Hells Gate National Park

Mount Longonot

Sioma Ngwezi National Park

Samburu National Reserve

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

6 Beautiful Lesser-Known Tourist Attractions In Africa

• Destinations

Africa is a wealth of natural, historical, and cultural wonders. Many travelers will know the popular tourist destinations on the continent: South Africa’s Kruger National Park, Egypt’s Pyramids, Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro, Kenya’s Masai Mara, and Zambia’s Victoria Falls; all of which are of course incredible places to visit. But have you heard of a village built on stilts over a lake in Ghana, or the 12th-century stone-cut churches of Ethiopia, or Malawi’s highest mountain?

If you have been drawn to this article, there’s a good chance that you’ve either already visited the continent’s most well-known attractions, or you’re looking for a trip to Africa that is a little more off the beaten track.

But Africa is a vast continent, and deciding where to go and what to see can be overwhelming, so I’ve narrowed it down to my pick of the 6 less-traveled African destinations that are worthy of a spot on your bucket list.

1. Draa Valley, Morocco

At 680 miles long, the Draa is Morocco’s longest river and lends its name to the Draa Valley. Ancient farming villages and farming communities line this river, and the area is known for its date farming, and production of cereals, vegetables, and henna. The valley is also famous for its ancient kasbahs, fortresses that were used for defense when cities came under attack. These kasbahs also doubled as houses for local leaders and were built with high walls for protection. The Valley stretches from the city of Ouarzazate to the Sahara Desert in the south of Morocco .

The Draa valley peters out near the settlements of Zagora and Tinfou, where a curiously lone sand dune sits, in the middle of a vast gravel plain. Here you will find a sign reading “Tombouctou 51 jours,” translating to “Timbuktu fifty-one days” – 51 days by camel that is – a measurement dating back to the days when Morocco controlled all the way across the Sahara Desert and into Mali.

Audley Tours offers an 8-day desert circuit that you can join to visit the Draa Valley.  

2. Nzulezo, Ghana

Some 224 miles – about a 7-hour drive – west of Ghana’s capital, Accra, lies the village of Nzulezo. Nzulezo is located on Lake Tandane, part of the Amasuri Wetlands, a sensitive ecosystem that is home to an impressive array of flora, fauna, and countless rare birds. The town is nestled in a mangrove forest and is only accessible by canoe from the coastal town of Beyin. Nzulezo’s estimated 600 inhabitants are farmers, fishermen, or brewers of the famous, local alcoholic “gin,” “akpeteshi.” Nzulezo is the only village in Ghana built entirely on stilts and is often referred to as “Ghana’s Venice.”

According to legend, the ancestors of Nzulezo’s modern-day inhabitants were from the ancient Ghana Empire in today’s Mali. In the 15th century, after a war fought over fertile land and gold, they were forced to flee. Legend has it that their god appeared as a snail and led them to today’s Ghana. Continuously forced to move onwards by other tribes or by slave traders, they followed their god until finally reaching Lake Tandane. Here they remained, feeling the lake would protect them against enemies and also provide them with food. 

Nzulezo depends on tourism. One of the highlights of a visit to this town is the actual journey to get here. After driving as far as the unpaved road allows, a short walk takes you to your canoe, and an hour’s canoe ride takes you through narrow, lush channels, open plains, and finally into the wide expanse of Amansuri Lake (the ride is safe and lifejackets are available). If you are staying at one of the beaches in the Western Region, such as Busua or Axim, the visit to Nzulezo can easily be done as a day trip. Anyone wanting to “live like the villagers” can stay at the Home Stay guest house, but don’t expect modern standards.

Pro Tip: There is a fine line between tourism and invading the local resident’s personal space – do ask before you take photos, and check behind you before posing for a selfie, in case some scantily clad person is trying to take a bath in the lake – most of the town does not have indoor running water.

Easy Track Ghana offers an 8-day Water Lover Tour if you are interested in visiting Nzulezo. 

3. Mount Mulanje, Malawi

Mt. Mulanje lies to the east of Blantyre, the main city in southern Malawi. Mulanje is an impressive sight to see, and its summit, Sapitwa Peak is the highest point in Malawi at 9,850 feet.

Mt. Mulanje is known locally as the “island in the sky” because it rises almost straight up from the flat plains below. This is a truly magnificent mountain and has to be seen to be appreciated. Unlike some of the world’s peaks that are obscured by surrounding ranges, here there is a genuine sense of awe as you draw closer to Mulanje and see it looming over its surroundings. The area boasts a variety of wildlife including small mammals and several bird species including the black eagle and countless white-necked ravens.

Visitors can drive around the foot of the massif in a day, but even better is to walk, trek, hike, and camp on the mountain. There is a large network of paths and trails and choices between quite gentle walking and serious climbing. Visitors can spend a couple of hours taking a walk to some river pools and waterfalls or spend many days exploring the whole massif.

Crafted Africa offers a great 9-night ‘Walk Malawi’ tour that includes Mount Mulanje and a number of other spots in this beautiful country. Alternatively, Mulanje town, at the base of the mountain, has shops and services, as well as a colonial-era “sports club” (complete with golf course) and a handful of hotels and guest houses, the best of which is Africa Wild Truck Camp & Lodge , who offer a variety of accommodation, in a converted colonial building, and can also organize Mulanje hikes using local guides and porters. A half-hour journey from Mulanje some lovely accommodation is offered at Huntingdon House on the Thyolo Tea Estates .

Pro Tip: Unsurprisingly for a vast, foreboding, and sometimes unforgiving mountain, local myths and legends abound around Mulanje, and visitors are well-advised to keep the mountain’s spirits “appeased” in the hope of a successful ascent!

4. Lalibela, Ethiopia

Lalibela in northern Ethiopia is known for its distinctive rock-hewn churches that date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. These churches are ancient pilgrimage sites for Coptic Christians and are still used for services today. Carved out of rock, there are eleven medieval churches, many of which are linked by underground tunnels and trenches and with some containing bas-relief and colored frescos. These unique churches include the majestic Bete Medhane Alem, home to the Lalibela Cross, and the cross-shaped Bete Giyorgis, the last of the 11 churches to be built. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Pro Tip: Lalibela is currently embroiled in the fighting between government and rebel forces from Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region; the rebels have taken the city, surrendered the city, retaken it, and re-surrendered it. Whilst this incredible place should definitely be on your list of places to visit, perhaps hold off on planning your trip for a little while.

5. Valley Of Desolation, South Africa

Situated in South Africa ’s Camdeboo National Park, the Valley of Desolation, sometimes referred to as the “cathedral of the mountains,” is a hauntingly beautiful place of gaping chasms flanked by astounding rock formations, precariously balanced giant dolomite rocks, and pillars that drop sharply by 400 feet to the valley floor below. Looking out from the rocky peaks that formed over 100 million years ago by a violent volcanic shift, all one sees seems to be an immense terrain of nothingness, and where even the quietest of whispers echoes in the still Karoo air.

The Valley of Desolation is a haven for campers and hikers, and home to a variety of plant and animal life, including 220 species of birds, 336 plants, and 43 mammals, highlights include the endangered Cape Mountain Zebra, the majestic Black Eagle, and the world’s heaviest flying bird, the Kori Bustard.

All this incredible natural wonder is just a 9-mile drive from South Africa’s fourth oldest town, Graaff-Reinet, in the Eastern Cape. You have a choice of scenic picnic sites, and for those with a little more energy, there are three hiking trails that range from 1 hour in duration to overnight hikes. Be sure to bring your camera!

Pro Tip: Those who want to maximize their experience can try the Crag Lizard Trail, a well-marked walk beginning in the parking lot that takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.

 6. Gorilla Trekking In The Congo

The Republic of the Congo, not to be confused with Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which shares a similar name and a border, is safe to travel to. It’s definitely not as well-known as other countries in Africa, but its pristine tropical forests make it a one-of-a-kind destination.

The beautiful Odzala-Kokoua National Park sits right in the heart of the Congo Basin and is one of the most remarkable gems in West Africa. Once home to nearly 20,000 gorillas , poaching has sadly reduced their numbers drastically, but Odzala-Kokoua is still home to the largest population of gorillas anywhere on the continent. The park has approximately 100 mammal species and is home to one of the continent’s most diverse primate populations. For a 9-day gorilla experience, contact Primate Safari Experiences .

There you have my take on some of the most beautiful, but often overlooked, places to visit in Africa. Time to start planning your visit.

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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South africa’s top 10 incredible attractions.

A A sk anyone and they’ll tell you, South Africa boasts amazing tourist attractions that are worth visiting more than once. But where does one even start? Here’s a list of top 10 attractions that you should tick off your “to-do” list.

1) Table Mountain

S S itting at 1,085m above sea level, you’re guaranteed incredible sunset views of Cape Town and surrounds on the new 7 Wonders of the World – the magnificent Table Mountain . Sprawling with indigenous plants such as the Protea and wildlife including adorable Dassies (rock badgers), Table Mountain is the ideal spot to witness nature at its best. Get a bird’s eye view of the city below from the Table Mountain Cable Way .

2) Cradle of Mankind

I I magine what life was like in South Africa millions of years ago. Now you can when you visit the Cradle of Mankind in Gauteng, just northwest of Johannesburg. This World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of fossilised history, and home to the remains of our ancestors – the Hominids. Go back in time and discover an ancient world of dinosaur fossils, hominid skeletons and evidence of their existence at the Maropeng Visitor Centre and the Sterkfontein Caves.

3) Robben Island

O O f course, a visit to the Cape Town (The Mother City) is not complete without a boat trip to Robben Island . One can almost feel the spirit of legendary Tata Madiba - Nelson Mandela on the island, where he spent 27 years in incarceration. Take a tour of his former prison cell and learn more about his years spent on the island with other struggle fighters.

4) The Cape Winelands

W W ho doesn’t like to swirl and sip delicious and award-winning wines? Even if you’re not a wine connoisseur, everyone can appreciate a good glass of wine. There’s no doubt South Africa, particularly the Western Cape is gateway to incredible wines that’s made in centuries old vineyards across the province. From Stellenbosch to Franschoek , drive along the wine route and enjoy wine tasting along with food pairing to tickle your palate.

5) The Drakensberg Mountains

R R eaching a whopping 3482 metres above sea level, the Drakensberg Mountains covers a distance of over 1000 kilometres. Thabana Ntlenyana is its highest peak and can be found around the area bordering Lesotho.

6) The Kruger National Park

E E xpect to see the 'King of the Jungle' in its natural domain, ruling over the savannah... and the roads. The Kruger National Park is a gateway into the wild, where visitors get to see the Big Five including lions and other fierce cats in their prime. 

F F rom the former home of legendary Nelson and Winnie Mandela to other prominent struggle fighters who fought for equality during apartheid, visit Soweto to get a real sense of South Africa’s past and an in-depth look into the lives of those who once lived there. Go on a Sowetan tour, including a visit to nearby taverns to enjoy local beer, braai (barbeque) and experience the vibe of the township.

8) Blyde River Canyon

T T ravelling to Mpumalanga requires a stopover at the Blyde River Canyon . There’s so much to see at this incredible part of the province, including God’s Window – an attraction that will greet you with sweeping views of the valley below.

9) Sun City Resort

I I n 1979 the Sun City Resort was built and houses the Valley of Waves. It’s situated along the border of the Pilanesberg National Park and is known for its casino entertainment, water theme park and renowned for its safari adventures.

10) Golden Gate Highlands National Park

S S ituated in the enchanting Golden Gate National Park in the heart of the Free State and at the foot of the Drakensberg Mountains , it's the perfect place to find South Africa and yourself.

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Africa

Written by Becca Blond and Karen Hastings Updated Jul 13, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

South Africa, officially known as the Republic of South Africa, is a great place to visit for a first-time safari. One of the country's main attractions is the African scenery: golden savannah, great gaping gorges, and hauntingly beautiful deserts, as well as an awe-inspiring cast of African creatures – and, as a bonus – all the creature comforts.

Apart from the big-name game parks of Kruger and the Kgalagadi (Kalahari) Transfrontier Park, South Africa is home to some of the world's most luxurious private game reserves and lodges . Wildlife lovers come here from all corners of the globe in search of the "Big Five": lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino, and elephant, and often they find it, and so much more.

Exploring coral reefs and dragon-backed mountain ranges, white-water rafting, and enjoying golden beaches lapped by legendary surf breaks are some of the most popular things to do in South Africa.

Traveling around this vast land and touring the vibrant cities, you can learn about the nation's turbulent history – in Cape Town, one of the world's most beautiful cities; in Durban, a melting pot of cultures and cuisines; at the poignant museums and galleries in Johannesburg; and in Soweto, birthplace of Nelson Mandela, who helped birth democracy here.

Discover the best places to visit in this diverse nation with our list of the top tourist attractions in South Africa.

1. Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga and Limpopo Provinces

2. cape town, western cape, 3. the garden route, 4. kgalagadi (kalahari) transfrontier park, northern cape, 5. stellenbosch, western cape, 6. the drakensberg, kwazulu-natal, 7. pilanesberg national park, 8. isimangaliso wetland park, kwazulu-natal, 9. blyde river canyon nature reserve, mpumalanga, 10. robben island, western cape, 11. durban's golden mile, kwazulu-natal, 12. sabi sands game reserve, mpumalunga, 13. boulders penguin colony, simon's town, western cape, 14. wild coast, eastern cape, 15. addo elephant national park, eastern cape, 16. madikwe game reserve, north west province, 17. jeffreys bay, eastern cape, 18. cape agulhas, western cape, 19. johannesburg and pretoria, gauteng, 20. cage dive with great white sharks, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit south africa.

Kruger National Park is one of the best game reserves in Africa , and one of the oldest in South Africa. If you're a wildlife lover, this famous park definitely needs to be on your South Africa itinerary.

The park lies about a 3.5- to 4.5-hour drive from Johannesburg and offers visitors the chance to see the "Big Five": lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino, as well as an astounding diversity of other wildlife. It's also home to San (bushman) rock paintings and archaeological sites.

You can explore Kruger National Park on the large network of sealed roads; organize a walking safari; or soar over the vast grasslands, gallery forests, and river systems in a hot air balloon.

One of the best things about Kruger National Park is that the accommodation caters to all budgets – you can stay in basic campsites, book a thatched bungalow, or relax in a luxury lodge.

Cape Town, South Africa is one of the planet's most breathtaking cities . Nature surrounds this multicultural city, which nuzzles between a rugged range of mountains and the sea.

One of the top things to do in Cape Town is visit Table Mountain, the flat-topped peak presiding over the city. For a spectacular overview, hike to the summit , or glide up on the cableway. The hour-long hike up Lion's Head also provides panoramic city vistas.

On Table Mountain's eastern slopes, the magnificent Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens lie within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cape Town's coast is also full of natural wonders. Strolling along the waterfront boardwalk, you might see whales spouting from the harbor. Penguins waddle along the golden beaches in False Bay, and south of the city, Cape Point is home to abundant wildlife and diverse botanical beauty.

Cape Town is also known for its beautiful boulder-flanked beaches. Camp's Bay is a favorite, with plenty of chic shops and cafés nearby .

Cape Town residents love their coast so much that at sunset, they stake a spot along spectacular Chapman's Peak Drive to toast the sunset in a dusk ritual known as "sundowners." Celebrating nature's beauty in this way is one of the unique things to do in South Africa, and something you might encounter on your travels at various locations around the country.

Another one of Cape Town's top tourist attractions to visit the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront , reminiscent of Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco. Here, you can shop, dine, and enjoy the many entertainment venues, including Two Ocean's Aquarium .

Along the country's southeast coast, the Garden Route runs for about 200 kilometers through some of South Africa's most breathtaking coastal scenery. The route stretches along the Indian Ocean from Mossel Bay , in the Western Cape , to the Storms River, in the Eastern Cape .

This popular driving route passes through rolling green hills, pretty coastal towns, lagoons, lakes, and coastal cliffs. Highlights of the Garden Route include the charming town of Knysna , snuggled between dense forests and a sparkling lagoon ; the beautiful Garden Route National Park, with its gorges, tidal pools, and thick forests; Oudtshoorn's ostrich farms and Cango Caves ; and the seal colony of the Robberg Nature Reserve in Plettenberg Bay.

Adventures along the way run the gamut, from elephant experiences and whale watching trips to bungee jumping and tree canopy tours.

A merger of South Africa's Kalahari Gemsbok National Park and Botswana's Gemsbok National Park , the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is one of the largest wilderness areas in the world .

Established in 2000, it is Africa's first officially declared transfrontier park and one of the top places to visit in South Africa's Northern Cape . Gnarled camel thorn trees, red sands, golden grasslands, and deep blue skies provide a bold backdrop for photographs and game viewing.

Among the huge diversity of wildlife, this vast conservation area is home to the famous black-maned Kalahari lion; stately gemsbok, with their V-shaped horns; the sprawling nests of sociable weavers; meerkats; and many birds of prey.

Other predators such as leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas are also found here. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for some of the minor rugged roads or for those venturing into Botswana.

Stellenbosch is one of the most picturesque towns in South Africa. A mosaic of farms, old oak trees, and white-washed Cape Dutch dwellings, it's one of the best preserved towns from the era of the Dutch East India Company.

Today, it's a university town, with a vibrant feel and fantastic scenery. Foodies will love it here. Stellenbosch is home to some of South Africa's best restaurants, as well as many sidewalk cafés.

History buffs can take a walk back in time at The Stellenbosch Village Museum , a group of four restored houses and gardens dating from 1709 to 1850. Rupert Museum displays important works by South African artists, and strolling around the Botanic Garden at the University of Stellenbosch is another top thing to do here.

In the surrounding area, nature buffs can hike and bike on the wilderness trails in the breathtaking Jonkershoek Nature Reserve .

The spectacular Drakensberg, meaning "Dragon Mountains," is one of the top places to visit in KwaZulu-Natal and a popular vacation destination for South Africans. It's also home to the country's highest peaks.

The region encompasses the World Heritage-listed uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park , a region of jaw-dropping beauty, with jagged basalt buttresses and San rock art, and Royal Natal National Park , home to the awe-inspiring Amphitheatre, a magnificent cliff face and source of South Africa's main rivers.

The Giant's Castle Game Reserve in the region protects large herds of eland. Dense forests flourish in the sheltered valleys, and the area is home to more than 800 different species of flowering plants, as well as a rich diversity of wildlife.

In the summer, the mountain landscapes are lush and fertile, with gushing waterfalls and crystal-clear streams. In the winter, snow cloaks the dramatic peaks.

Visitors flock here to hike and bike the scenic mountain trails, fish for trout , rock climb, abseil, parasail, and raft the waters of the fast-flowing rivers. Hot air balloon rides are a great way to appreciate the dramatic topography.

Are you short on time but want to see Africa's Big 5? Pilanesberg National Park is home to prolific wildlife and a dazzling diversity of birds about 2.5 hours away from Johannesburg and Pretoria . Easily accessible from these major cities, it makes a great day trip or multi-day stay. It's much smaller than massive Kruger National Park but as a consequence, it has a higher concentration of game.

Pilanesberg lies in a transition zone, between the parched Kalahari Desert and the rain-soaked lowveld, which means you can see a rich variety of animals here. Besides most of the Big 5 (elephant, rhino, leopard, lion, and buffalo), you have the chance to spot African wild dogs, herds of zebra, the magnificent sable and roan antelope, giraffes, and more than 350 species of birds.

Accommodation caters to different budgets. Choose from permanent safari tents, self-catering units, bed and breakfasts, or luxury guest lodges.

Best of all, this park is malaria free , making it a great choice for family safaris.

Official site: https://www.pilanesbergnationalpark.org/

iSimangaliso means "miracle and wonder" in the Zulu language, and it's a fitting name for this World Heritage Area , home to Africa's largest estuarine system. Formerly the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park, iSimangaliso lies on the northeastern coast of Kwazulu Natal and connects eight interwoven ecosystems, including coral reefs, croc-filled rivers, lakes, towering coastal dunes, swamplands, and savanna.

Not surprisingly, the area supports an incredible variety of wildlife. More than 526 species of birds inhabit the reserve, as well as leatherback and loggerhead turtles, leopards, rhinos, and Africa's highest concentration of hippos and crocodiles.

This unique wilderness area offers you the chance to combine a classic safari experience with coastal adventures in the marine reserve, such as kayaking, fishing, diving, and snorkeling.

Official site: http://isimangaliso.com/

Beautiful Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve (also called Motlatse River Canyon) is a favorite stop on the drive between Johannesburg and Kruger National Park. The park is home to Africa's second largest canyon, as well as a rich diversity of wildlife and plants. Lush subtropical foliage, waterfalls, glistening rivers, and lichen-covered rock formations create a striking canvas of color and texture.

Game viewing can be particularly rewarding, with all the common species of South African primates and many hippos and crocodiles.

The best way to explore this spectacular park is via the scenic driving routes or by hiking the extensive trails. Panoramic viewpoints include Three Rondavels and the aptly named God's Window .

Boat trips and whitewater rafting are also available on the rivers.

In Table Bay, World-Heritage-listed Robben Island is a haunting reminder of the horrors of apartheid. Nelson Mandela spent 18 years imprisoned in a tiny cell here along with other political dissidents and social misfits.

Perhaps the best part about this experience is that ex-prisoners are usually the guides, sharing poignant first-hand accounts of the atrocities they endured.

Tours to the island begin with multimedia exhibits in the museum at the Nelson Mandela Gateway in the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Sightseers then board boats to Robben Island, often braving rough swells on the 30- to 45-minute ride. Be sure to book early, as the tours can fill up fast.

The sweeping waterfront promenade called the Golden Mile is a legendary Durban tourist attraction and a great starting point for a tour of the city. Long blond beaches lure swimmers, surfers, and anglers, while the bustling promenade feels like Miami Beach with its high-rise hotels, shops, restaurants, and flashy entertainment complexes.

You can stroll along the promenade or rent a bike or Segway. Besides the beach scene, top attractions along this stretch include uShaka Marine World , a wonderland of sea-themed attractions; Moses Mabhida Stadium ; and Mini Town , a tiny replica of Durban with a miniature rail network, airport, and harbor scene.

For one of South Africa's most luxurious safari experiences pay a visit to Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which is adjacent to Kruger National Park .

The private reserve hosts dozens of top-end lodges, including Singita Sabi Sand. The five-star lodge has three types of sleeping experiences on 45,00 acres of land and is known for its frequent leopard sightings. The different lodging options at Singita Sabi Sand include Singita Boulders Lodge , Singita Ebony Lodge , and Singita Castleton .

One of the perks of staying in a private reserve versus the national park is the ability for game drives to get closer to the animals because they don't have to stick to designated roads. The animals themselves can roam freely between Kruger and Sabi Sands, and the lodges here all employ expert guides and trackers to take guests into the heat of the action, be this watching a pride of lions on the hunt or getting up close to a rhino.

If you have a love of penguins, then you'll want to head to Simon's Town, about an hour from Cape Town . Here, you'll find three pretty beaches that are home to the Boulders Penguin Colony. The colony of charismatic black-and-white endangered African penguins is about 2,000 strong.

You'll find the birds lounging on the sand and surrounding granite boulders, as well as taking a dip in the bay. The water here is very clear and calm and because the boulders shelter it from winds and currents, it is also a good swimming spot if you can brave the icy temps of the water.

To enter the beach area where the penguins are, you'll need to pay a conservation fee to the Table Mountain National Marine Protected Area , which helps preserve their habitat. The best penguin viewing sites are seen from a boardwalk at Foxy Beach .

After getting your fill of penguins, head into Simon's Town for lunch. The town is also home to South Africa'a largest naval base.

Some of South Africa's most beautiful coastline runs between East London and Chintsa in the Eastern Cape. Known as the Wild Coast, the landscape here is a mesmerizing melange of craggy cliffs, deep blue ocean, gold sand, green hills, and subtropical forests.

The ancestral home of the Xhosa people, whose villages still cover the hillsides, this region was part of the Transkei during the apartheid era and was one of four territories declared independent from South Africa at the time. After apartheid ended, it joined the Eastern Cape province in 1994.

Today you can drive the route, which is a similar concept to the Garden Route, with small towns like Port St. Johns , Coffee Bay , and Chintsa strung out along the highway and serving as anchors for further exploration. The best way to experience the Wild Coast, however, is either with a 4WD vehicle that lets you get off the pavement, or via foot. Many of the local villages are connected by walking tracks.

Popular activities include surfing, horseback riding, and looking for animals in Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve . Hole in the Wall, which is a natural arch that has been carved by the omnipresent and furious ocean, is another must-see.

Chintsa, which is at the very edge of the route, is our favorite place to stay. Surrounded by rolling green hills and forests, it has a beautiful stretch of beach backed by windswept dunes, a handful of small hotels, and a few restaurants in the two villages on either side of the Chintsa River.

South Africa's third largest national park, Addo Elephant National Park was founded in 1931 in an effort to save the country's last 11 bush elephants from extinction. Located in the Eastern Cape around 72 kilometers north of Port Elizabeth , it is home to more than 600 elephants today.

The ecosystem of this national park, which stretches from the Karoo to the coast, is also intriguing. And besides elephants, the park is home to large breeding populations of African penguins and Cape gannets .

The park is also home to two offshore islands, and claims it is the only national park on the planet to protect the Big 7, which counts great white sharks and southern right whales along with the traditional Big 5 (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, and Cape buffalo).

Book a guided day or night game drive to hopefully see all these animals, as well as lots of bird species, zebras, antelope, and nocturnal creatures, from bush pigs to porcupines. You can also participate in horseback riding safaris and even hikes. Many people visit just for a day, but if you want to stay overnight, you can reserve accommodation in huts or a two-story cottage.

Official site: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/addo/default.php

Less well known and crowded than many of South Africa's top parks, Madikwe Game Reserve is located in the North West Province near the border with Botswana . The park is located at the edge of the Kalahari Desert and features beautiful scenery. It is also teeming with animals.

South Africa's fifth largest reserve, the park is just a four-hour drive north from Johannesburg and also accessible by bush plane.

There are a number of safari lodges inside its fences, ranging from mid-range to ultra luxe, like Jamala Madikwe . All offer opportunities to see the Big 5, along with rarer animals like the African wild dog. There are less than 5,000 wild dogs left in the wild, but Madikwe has a good-sized pack that can often be spotted on wildlife drives.

Surfers flock to Jeffreys Bay between May and September to try to hang 10 at South Africa's most famous break, Supertubes. J-Bay, as the town is often referred to, is one of the top surfing spots in the world and hosts major competitions.

The right-hand point break can run for more than 300 meters during a good swell. It is known not only for its length and fast tubing formation (hence the name) but also for its consistency.

Jefferys Bay is in the Eastern Cape, about 77 kilometers southwest of Port Elizabeth . In summer, between December and February, when the winds die down and the Indian Ocean waters warm up, the beach here is also great for swimming and body boarding.

J-Bay is a top vacation spot in summer for South Africans, who come to relax on the beach, dine on fresh fish and stay in one of many hotels, guesthouses, or hostels around the laid-back town.

Cape Agulhas marks the African continent's southernmost point and is where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet .

It is often overlooked for a visit to Cape Point, which is closer to Cape Town and has a more dramatic coastline. That said, Cape Point is South Africa's most southwesterly point, but to say you've stood at the very tip of Africa, you'll need to make the 220-kilometer drive from the Mother City to Cape Agulhas.

The place where the two oceans meet is marked only by a small cobalt blue sign and is well worth a photo for the bucket list tick off. Translated to mean "Cape of Needles," the name's exact origin is still unknown. Some say it references the Portuguese navigators' compass needles that pointed due north here. Others say it was named for the needle-sharp reefs off the coastline here.

Also in the vicinity is South Africa's second oldest lighthouse. It was built in 1848 and today serves as a museum.

Johannesburg, also known as Jo'burg, is the largest city in South Africa by population and a gateway for many travelers on safari. Named the "City of Gold" for its rich deposits of the precious metal, it's also the economic engine and vibrant heart of the country.

Top things to do in Johannesburg include visiting the Apartheid Museum, a poignant look at the oppression of apartheid to the birth of democracy; Constitution Hill; and Gold Reef City, which traces the region's history through mining-themed attractions.

If Johannesburg is the heart of South Africa, the shanty towns of Soweto , are its soul. An abbreviation for "southwestern townships," Soweto birthed the freedom movement, which created South Africa's new democratic constitution. One of the popular things to do in Johannesburg is take a guided tour of the townships, which often includes a visit to the Mandela House , now a national monument.

Close in distance, but a world away in feel, Pretoria is the administrative capital of South Africa. It's a city of parks and gardens, and home to popular attractions like the Voortrekker Monument and Heritage Site and the highly-lauded Freedom Park .

Climb into a thick iron cage, plunge into the ocean, and come face-to-face with a great white shark. Believe it or not, this is one of South Africa's top attractions – for thrill seekers. The sport has become so popular that new tour operators keep sprouting up every year.

The best time to try the dive is April through October, but great whites swim these waters throughout the year thanks to healthy populations of seals and fish.

Cape Town tour operators organize shark cage dives to areas such as Simon's Town , Seal Island , Dyer Island , Mossel Bay, and Gansbaai, the self-proclaimed "Great White Shark Capital of the World." Trips can also be arranged out of Durban and Rocky Bay .

Since divers are enclosed in the custom-designed cages, no diving certification is required. For a little less excitement, it's also possible to watch the action from the boat.

South Africa offers plenty of things to do in every season. If you're wondering about the best time to visit South Africa, it mainly depends on your preferred activities. Game viewing in the national parks is best in the dry winter months, from June through September. Winter is also the best time for whale watching , and if you're a surfer , big swells roll in along the coast during this time of year.

Sightseeing in the cities and along the coast is wonderful all year-round, though winters can be a little chilly – especially in the south of the country. If you plan to explore Cape Town and the Garden Route, summer (December through February) is the best time to go. This is also the best time to soak up the sun on South Africa's beautiful beaches.

More on South Africa

15 Cool Places In Africa You've Probably Never Visited

Posted: April 23, 2024 | Last updated: April 23, 2024

Africa, the cradle of civilization, is rich in history, culture, and natural wonders. To travel enthusiasts, it is a treasure trove of unique experiences waiting to be explored, featuring ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes. While many are familiar with its famous landmarks and popular tourist destinations, countless hidden gems await discovery. Here are 15 mesmerizing parts of Africa that will leave you in awe and with a heightened sense of adventure.

The Enchanted Forests of Madagascar

Madagascar’s lush forests harbor a treasure trove of biodiversity, including rare lemurs and exotic flora found nowhere else on Earth. Trekking through these enchanted woodlands offers a glimpse into a world untouched by time, where ancient trees tower overhead and vibrant wildlife thrives in secluded habitats.

The Crystal Caves of Namibia’s Naica Mine

Deep within Namibia’s Naica Mine lie the Crystal Caves, an underground wonderland adorned with massive gypsum crystals. These colossal formations, some reaching over 30 feet in length, sparkle with an otherworldly brilliance, creating a surreal landscape. Exploring these caves is a journey into the heart of the Earth’s geological wonders.

The Blue Nile Falls of Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s Blue Nile Falls, known as “Tis Abay,” cascades over dramatic cliffs, creating a spectacular display of natural beauty. Where mist from the falls gives rise to rainbows, adding to the enchantment of this awe-inspiring sight. Visiting the Blue Nile Falls offers a refreshing escape into the heart of Ethiopia’s rich terrain.

The White Desert of Egypt

Have you ever heard of the White Desert of Egypt? It is a surreal landscape of chalk rock formations shaped by wind and sand over millennia. The stark white rocks, contrasted against the deep blue sky, create an otherworldly atmosphere reminiscent of a lunar landscape. Camping under the stars in this ethereal desert is an unforgettable experience.

The Valley of the Moon in Namibia

The Valley of the Moon in Namibia, also called Sossusvlei, is an awe-inspiring topography of towering dunes and salt pans. A dramatic interplay of light and shadow creates ever-changing landscapes that seem straight from a dream. This sublunar terrain at sunrise or sunset is a photographer’s paradise and a spiritual journey for travelers.

The Underground Churches of Lalibela, Ethiopia

Lalibela, Ethiopia, is home to a remarkable collection of rock-hewn churches carved entirely from solid rock over 800 years ago. These underground churches, designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcase intricate architecture and religious significance. A tour of Lalibela’s underground passages and hidden chambers is a journey through time and faith.

The Skeleton Coast of Namibia

Namibia’s Skeleton Coast is a hauntingly beautiful stretch of coastline littered with shipwrecks and bleached whale bones. This desolate landscape has an eerie, rugged, and captivating atmosphere, where winds howl and waves crash relentlessly. Discovering the secrets of the Skeleton Coast is a testament to the raw power of nature.

The Valley of the Kings in Egypt

The Valley of the Kings, situated near modern-day Luxor in Egypt, is one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Home to over 60 intricately decorated tombs of pharaohs and nobles, the necropolis offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian beliefs, rituals, and artistic mastery. Exploring this sacred burial site provides a profound understanding of the majestic civilization that once thrived along the Nile.

The Pink Lake of Senegal

What a beauty to behold! Senegal’s Lac Rose, or Pink Lake, is a natural wonder renowned for its vibrant pink hue caused by high concentrations of salt-loving algae. This surreal environment, surrounded by dunes and crystalline waters, creates a mesmerizing sight that seems like a fairy tale.

The Lost City of Timgad in Algeria

Timgad, also known as the “Pompeii of Africa,” is an ancient Roman city in the Aures Mountains of Algeria. Founded by Emperor Trajan in the 1st century AD, the remarkably preserved city boasts grand arches, intricate mosaics, and imposing temples that showcase Roman civilization in North Africa.

The Fish River Canyon in Namibia

Have you heard of the largest canyon in Africa? Namibia’s Fish River Canyon spans over 160 kilometers, reaching depths of over 500 meters. This astonishing wonder offers panoramic views and challenging hiking trails for adventurous travelers, testing endurance and unveiling the heart of the Namibian wilderness.

The Blyde River Canyon in South Africa

The Blyde River Canyon in South Africa is a must-visit destination for those seeking geological marvels. Its towering cliffs, lush forests, and meandering rivers offer a captivating view of the Earth’s intricate processes. At the same time, iconic landmarks like the Three Rondavels and Bourke’s Luck Potholes add to its allure, making it a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Ruins of Great Zimbabwe

Great Zimbabwe is a captivating destination for a comprehensive journey through Africa’s rich history and cultural heritage. It is an ancient city built entirely of stone without mortar, dating back to the 11th century. These impressive ruins, spreading over a vast area, include monumental stone structures and intricate passageways that give insight into the architectural prowess of the past.

The Virunga Mountains of Rwanda

Mountains are nature’s majestic sculptures, and the Virunga Mountains of Rwanda exemplify this with their awe-inspiring volcanic peaks. Within these peaks reside endangered mountain gorillas and lush montane forests. Trekking through these mist-shrouded mountains offers a once-in-a-lifetime privilege to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

The Underground Lake of Malawi

The Underground Lake in Malawi’s Mangochi District is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Accessible through caverns and tunnels, this subterranean wonder dazzles with crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations, making it a thrilling adventure into the unknown.

The post 15 Cool Places In Africa You’ve Probably Never Visited appeared first on Housely .

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Cool 25 Attractions to See and Things to Do in Durban, South Africa

Durban is a city in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. The city sits on the coast of the Indian Ocean and is blessed with wonderful beaches. The majority of fun things to do in Durban , South Africa are centered around the coastline.

Aside from pristine beaches, the coastal areas of the city also have water parks, nightlife venues, shopping markets, aquariums, marine parks, entertainment venues, recreational facilities, and food joints. Some of the most important historical places to visit in Durban , South Africa are also situated by the coast. The beaches are also popular for fun activities in Durban such as surfing, snorkeling, boat cruises, scuba diving, kite surfing, swimming, water sports, and more.

After the ocean, forest safaris are the biggest Durban tourist attractions. The city is surrounded by national parks, wildlife reserves, and nature reserves. Lions, Elephants, Impalas, Zebras, Giraffes, and other wild animals are among the most popular things to see in Durban . For those looking for even more adventurous things to do in Durban, they can go for animal encounters at wildlife parks and aquariums. Wildlife feeding sessions and swimming with sharks are the most popular such experiences.

The city itself has a nice blend of modern, historical, and cultural attractions. During Durban sightseeing , you will come across colonial buildings, an art museum, a historical museum, a maritime museum, port facilities, and historical defensive structures.

Before colonization, the city was home to the Zulu community. You can explore cultural centers, art museums, handicraft centers, and historical museums among Durban attractions to learn about the Zulu culture. You can also experience the Zulu tradition through costumes, handicrafts, dance performances, food, festivals, and so on. There are several markets you can explore during Durban travel to purchase traditional items of Zulu origin.

Among modern places to go in Durban , you can explore gardens, parks, zoo, amusement parks, entertainment venues, adventure parks, and so on. The metropolitan culture of this city also has great shopping streets, nightlife venues, and fine dining restaurants.

People visit Durban because they can enjoy a variety of attractions and activities in one city. From cruising the ocean to exploring the jungles and from admiring historical architecture to enjoying modern thrill rides; all is possible at Durban points of interest.

This Blog Post contains affiliate links. If you purchase anything from that link then I may earn a small part of the commission and for that, you do not need to pay any extra amount.

Table of Contents

Top 25 Tourist Places to Visit in Durban in 6 Days (Trip Itinerary)

1. durban botanic gardens.

This is the oldest botanical garden in South Africa. It is spread over 2,000 sqm and is divided into several themed gardens. It is also included among Durban tourist attractions for housing 100 years old palm trees. You will need about an hour to explore the botanic gardens.

I suggest you should go for a city sightseeing tour of Durban and visit Durban Botanic Gardens.

2. Victoria Street Market

Colloquially known as Vic, this market dates back to the 1800s and is the oldest one in the city. It is one of the most fun things to do in Durban, South Africa. You will get to see a variety of stalls for food, decorative, household items, electronics, jewelers, fashion, textiles, and more. The market exhibits a blend of African and Indian cultures. It is also quite popular for various street food stalls. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour this market.

3. Golden Mile

This 6 kilometers long beach-front promenade is one of the best places to visit in Durban, South Africa. The route is surrounded by various facilities such as beaches, swimming areas, bike trails, walking routes, food stalls, a craft market, and more. You can easily spend an hour or so exploring this place.

I suggest you can go for a Guided Tour of the Golden Mile along with the Durban Botanic Garden and Moses Mabhida Stadium.

4. Moses Mabhida Stadium

This stadium was first built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Though designed for football, the stadium is also used for a variety of sports including cricket, rugby, motorsports, and so on. It is also a popular venue for events and concerts. The stadium is one of the most wonderful things to see in Durban, known for its modern architecture. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore this stadium.

5. Umgeni River Bird Park

This aviary and conservation area is spread over 3.5 hectares. The is popular for several fun activities in Durban including bird watching, nature trails, bird shows, and animal interactions. This bird park is home to several species of birds including owls, storks, cranes, hornbills, cuckoos, vultures, parrots, kookaburras, and many more. You will need about 2 hours to tour this bird park.

1. Port Natal Maritime Museum

This museum is dedicated to the merchant and military maritime history of Durban. The museum has naval equipment, real-life vessels, ship models, tug boats, and more. You will need about an hour from Durban sightseeing for this Museum.

2. Durban Natural Science Museum

The museum focuses on various natural sciences, but the majority of the exhibits are centered around zoology. You will see skeletons of Dodo, T-Rex, and several other extinct animals. The fossilized egg of the Elephant Bird is also one of the major highlights of this museum. It is one of the most popular Durban attractions for family tourists. You will need about an hour to tour this museum.

3. Durban Art Gallery

This art gallery is situated inside the City Hall. It has more than 3,500 pieces of art gathered from several places around the world. It is one of the most interesting places to go in Durban. The museum has paintings, sculptures, ceramics, pots, carvings, handicraft items, and more. You will need an hour from Durban travel for this gallery.

4. Old Court House Museum

This museum is housed inside one of the oldest buildings in the city. First built in 1860, this building has served as a recruitment center, military canteen, and library. The building has several museums including the Miniature Car Collection, Court House Museum, History of Natal museum, and more. The building is also popular among places to see in Durban as it is associated with Mahatma Gandhi. You will need about an hour to tour this building and the exhibits within it.

5. Kwa Muhle Museum

This museum focuses on the precursor and aftermath of the apartheid era. It is one of the biggest Durban points of interest as this government policy had brutal implications for the citizens. The museum is held inside the former Native Administration Department building, which itself played a huge role during the apartheid. You will need an hour to tour this museum when you visit Durban, South Africa.

I suggest you should book a Half Day City Sightseeing Tour of Durban to see Kwa Muhle Museum.

6. The Old Fort

This fort was built after the British suffered defeat in the siege of 1842. It was later converted into cottages for military veterans. The museum focuses on the military and warfare history of this fort and the stories of the soldiers who served here. It is also one of the most popular places of interest in Durban for its park and recreational activities. You will need about an hour to tour this fort.

7. North Beach

Facing the Indian Ocean, this beach is popular for surfing, water skiing, swimming, and other adventurous things to do in Durban, South Africa. The waters are barricaded with shark nets to protect the people. It is also one of the most facilitated Durban beaches with restaurants, clubhouses, bars, shacks, recreational activities, and more. You can easily spend a couple of hours enjoying at this beach.

1. Paradise Valley Nature Reserve

Spread over 100 hectares, this nature reserve is popular for outdoor activities to do in Durban. You can explore waterfalls, forest areas, cliffs, streams, and more. You can come here for nature trails, hiking, bird watching, wildlife spotting, and camping. You will need at least 2 hours to explore Paradise Valley.

2. Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve

This nature reserve is spread over 253 hectares and is particularly known for its abundance of flora and fauna. It is one of the best places to visit in Durban for bird & wildlife spotting. You can see zebra, bushbuck, impala, mongoose, vervet monkeys, rock hyrax, and several species of birds. You will need 3 to 4 hours to explore this area.

1. Phezulu Safari Park

Wildlife safari is one of the biggest Durban tourist attractions. This wildlife park is home to Lions, Giraffes, Wild-beasts, Blesboks, Zebra, Impala, crocodiles, and many other African animals. You can also enjoy a variety of cuisine at the park’s restaurant and purchase Zulu handicraft items at the Curio Shop. You will need about 3 hours to tour this park.

I suggest you should combine your Tour to Phezulu Safari Park with Durban City Sightseeing.

2. Valley of a Thousand Hills

This scenic valley covers several villages and natural landscapes. It is one of the most beautiful things to see in Durban. You can see many cultural villages, cottage industries, horseback riding, farmer’s markets, hiking, and train tour. You can easily spend 3 to 4 hours driving through this valley and exploring various attractions along the way.

I suggest you should book a Tour of the Valley of a Thousand Hills in advance.

1. uShaka Marine World

This is the largest marine park on the entire African continent. The park has a large aquarium with various animals from around the world including sharks, dolphins, rays, whales, octopuses, jellyfish, seahorses, turtles, and more. It is especially popular for marine animal shows, feeding presentations, and performances. You will need about 2 hours from Durban sightseeing to explore this park.

2. Ushaka Wet ‘n Wild

This water park has thrill rides, water games, entertainment, recreational activities, dining, themed parks, and more. It is one of the most fun places to go in Durban for family tourists. Some of the most popular rides in this water park include 72 meters tall slide, body tornado, mamba tunnel, super tube, kamikaze speed slide, the Cuba, and so on. You can easily spend a couple of hours at this water park.

3. Ushaka Beach

This golden sands beach is part of the Ushaka Marine World and is one of the best beaches in Durban. It is also protected by a shark net and is patrolled by lifeguards. People come here for swimming, kayaking, surfing, kite surfing, and other adventurous things to do in Durban, South Africa. The beach also has some grassed areas for recreational activities and sunbathing. You will need at least an hour to explore this beach and its various attractions.

1. Mitchell Park & Jameson Park

These two public parks are great for leisure, recreational, and fun activities in Durban. Both parks have green spaces, picnic spots, sports facilities, and more. Mitchell Park is home to the Blue Zoo which has monkeys, raccoons, cranes, crocodiles, and a few other animals. Jameson Park on the other hand was built on a former pineapple plantation and is popular for its rose garden. The garden has more than 200 species of roses originating from different parts of the world. You can easily spend 20 to 30 minutes at each of the parks when you visit Durban.

2. Phansi Museum

This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the KwaZulu-Natal province. It is one of the best places to see in Durban, South Africa to explore traditional Zulu culture as well as that of the colonial period. You will see traditional artifacts, paintings, carved items, woodwork, jewelry, instruments, sculptures, agricultural objects, and more. You will need about an hour to tour this museum.

I suggest you should book a Full Day Zulu Cultural Tour with Food Tasting and visit the Phansi Museum.

3. Durban North Japanese Gardens

This park is designed like a traditional Japanese garden. The gardens have themed green areas, ponds, picnic areas, Japanese monuments, and statues. It is popular among Durban points of interest for cherry blossoms and bamboo gardens. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore this garden.

4. Addington Beach

This beautiful Durban beach is known for beach sports, water sports, recreational activities, leisure, dining, clubbing, and more. The beach is one of the top places of interest in Durban for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing. You can easily spend a couple of hours relaxing and enjoying at this beach.

5. Boat Cruise Tour

As you can explore the jungles of Africa in a jeep, you can explore the Indian Ocean in a boat. You can book a variety of boat rides to explore the ocean including sailing boats, yachts, cruise boats, speed boats, and so on. You can also take a boat ride for scuba diving, ocean swimming, and spot marine animals like dolphins, whales, and sharks. It is one of the most fun activities in Durban. You will need 2 to 3 hours for this experience.

I suggest you should try a 30-minute Boat Cruise Tour in Durban .

6. Gondola Ride

If you don’t want to go too far from the city for a boat ride, you can enjoy rocking on a Gondola boat ride. This experience is especially popular among couples and honeymoon tourists. The ride takes you along the waterfront areas and also includes a few Durban points of interest. You need about an hour for this experience.

I suggest if you are a couple and want to spend some romantic moments with your partner then either you can go for a Day Time Gondola Ride or you can go for a Night Time Gondola Ride .

If you are looking for more experiences in Durban, check out the sections below. We have built an exhaustive list of attractions and activities that you can enjoy in and around the city.

Things to do in durban, monuments, museums & historical places to visit in durban.

• Kwa Muhle Museum
• Durban Natural Science Museum
• KwaZulu Natal Society of the Arts
• Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple
• Durban City Hall
• Durban Art Gallery
• Phansi Museum
• Port Natal Maritime Museum
• The Bergtheil Museum Westville
• Old House Museum
• Elizabeth Gordon Gallery
• Campbell Collections
• African Art Center
• The Old Fort
• Emmanuel Cathedral
• Hare Krishna Temple
• Cato Manor Heritage Center
• Clairwood Shree Shiva Soobramonior Temple
• Umkhumbane Museum
• Durban Hindu Temple
• Sri Vishnu Temple
• Natural Science Museum & Research Center
• MOTH Museum of Militaria
• Umbilo Shree Ambalavaanar Alayam Temple
• Durban Cultural and Documentation Center
• Cave Rock Monument
• Local History Museum
• St. Paul’s Anglican Church
• Mahatma Gandhi Settlement
• Old Courthouse Museum
• Historical Compensation Sugar Mill

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Durban

• Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserves
• Paradise Valley Nature Reserve
• Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve
• Bluff Nature Reserve
• Palmiet Nature Reserve
• New Germany Nature Reserve
• Burman Bush Nature Reserve
• Pigeon Valley Nature Reserve
• Virginia Bush Nature Reserve
• Roosfontein Nature Reserve
• Msinsi Nature Reserve
• Bayhead Natural Heritage Site
• Silverglen Nature Reserve
• Crocodile Creek
• Lake Eland Game Reserve
• Ventures by Sweetdale
• Oribi Vulture Viewing Hide

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Durban

• uShaka Marine World
• uShaka Sea World
• Durban Botanic Garden
• Suncoast Casino
• Umgeni Bird Park
• Mitchel Park Zoo
• uShaka Wet n’ Wild
• Durban Funworld
• Zulu Moon Gondolas Ride
• Japanese Gardens
• The Bat Center
• Bluff National Park Golf Club
• uShaka Chimp & Zee
• Beachwood Course
• Jameson Park
• uShaka Dangerous Creatures Park
• People’s Park
• Country Club Beach
• Durban Ice Arena
• Sea Animals Encounters Island
• Float Wellness SA
• Gugu Dlamini Park
• Blue Wilderness
• Calypso Dive & Adventure Center
• Greyville Race Course
• Sibaya Casino
• Skydive Durban
• Surf Artificial Waves
• The Playhouse Company

Shopping in Durban

• I Heart Market
• Golden Hours Family Market
• Markets of Warwick
• Gateway Theater of Shopping
• Victoria Street Market
• The Pavilion Shopping Center
• African Arts Center
• uShaka Village Walk
• The Workshop Shopping Center
• Windermere Shopping Center
• Chatsworth Center
• Oxford Village Shopping Center
• La Lucia Mall
• Southway Mall
• The Indian Quarter

Beaches & Islands in Durban

• Golden Mile Beach
• Addington Beach
• Wedge Beach
• Snake Park Beach
• Ansteys Beach
• Durban Beachfront Promenade
• Suncoast Beach
• Blue Lagoon Beach
• Glenashley Beach
• Beachwood Beach
• New Pier Beach
• Garvies Beach
• Bay of Plenty Beach
• uShaka Beach

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventures in Durban

• Wildlife Safari
• Off-Roading
• Boat Cruise
• Scuba Diving
• Nature Trails
• Bird-Watching
• Kite-Surfing
• Water Sports
• Segway Tour
• Walking Tours
• Bicycle Tours
• Swim with Sharks Experience

Sightseeing in Durban

• Florida Road
• Farewell Square
• KwaZulu Cruise Terminal
• North Beach Pier
• Berea Ridge
• Durban Harbour
• Wilson’s Wharf

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Durban

• Empire Steak
• 9th Avenue Waterside
• House of Curries
• Afro’s Chicken
• Big Easy Wine Bar & Grill
• CaneCutters Restaurant
• Havana Grill
• Daily Dosage
• Surf Riders Food Shack
• Butcher Block
• CaneCutters Umhlanga
• Butcher Boys Grill
• Jack Salmon Fish House
• Skyline Coffee Roaster
• Impulse by the Sea
• Old Town Italy
• The Curry Os Point
• Hollywood Bets
• The Grill Room

Where to Stay in Durban?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range, and Budget Hotels in Durban. You can check the below-listed hotels for your perfect stay in Durban.

Luxurious Hotels

• Rain Farm Game and Lodge
• Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel
• The Bentley Westville
• Suncoast Towers
• Ocean Vista Boutique Guest House
• Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani
• The Palace All-Suite
• Villa Le View
• African Peninsula Guest House
• Point Waterfront Apartments
• Avondale Boutique Hotel
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Durban Umhlanga

Mid-Range Hotels

• Garden Court Marine Parade
• City Lodge Hotel Durban
• Coweys Corner
• The Benjamin
• Blue Waters Hotel
• ONOMO Hotel Durban
• Centre Court B&B
• Westville Bed & Breakfast
• Valley Lodge
• Garden Court South Beach
• The Saint James on Venice Boutique Hotel
• Madeline Grove Bed & Breakfast

Budget Hotels

• ATKV Natalia
• Acorn B&B
• Oliveroom B&B
• Smith’s Cottage
• The Brother’s Guest House
• Riverside de Charmoy Estate Guest House
• Carrington Guest House
• Road Lodge Durban
• Coastlands Musgrave Hotel
• Roseland House
• The Riverside Hotel

Custom Tours Package in Durban

How to reach durban.

Durban is served by King Shaka International Airport, which sits 40 km outside the city. You can get direct flights to visit Durban from Johannesburg , Harare, Cape Town , Dubai , London , Doha, and Istanbul . The airport is connected with places to visit in Durban by cabs and buses.

You can get direct trains to reach Durban from Johannesburg and Pietermaritzburg. The bus network is quite widespread and it connects the city to various places in South Africa.

If you are planning for Durban travel by road, you should head for routes 2 or 3.

There are several Indian Ocean cruises that dock at the city’s port and include Durban sightseeing in their itinerary.

Image Reference

• Durban Botanic Gardens – Alf Igel / Flickr
• Victoria Street Market – flowcomm / Flickr
• Golden Mile – George Bayliss / Flickr
• Moses Mabhida Stadium – Clive Reid / Flickr
• Umgeni River Bird Park – Clive Reid / Flickr
• Port Natal Maritime Museum – Bob Adams / Flickr
• Durban Natural Science Museum – Chris Eason / Flickr
• Durban Art Gallery – Karen / Flickr
• Old Court House Museum –
• Kwa Muhle Museum – Shubert Ciencia / Flickr
• The Old Fort – Clive Reid / Flickr
• North Beach – Bernard DUPONT / Flickr
• Paradise Valley Nature Reserve – Smurfatefrog / Wikimedia Commons
• Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve –
• Phezulu Safari Park – David Pirmann / Flickr
• Valley of a Thousand Hills – Paul Williams / Flickr
• uShaka Marine World – South African Tourism / Flickr
• Ushaka Wet ‘n Wild – South African Tourism / Flickr
• Ushaka Beach – ethekwinigirl / Flickr
• Mitchell Park and Jameson Park – Chris Bloom / Flickr
• Phansi Museum – ign11 / Flickr
• Japanese Gardens –
• Addington Beach – Chris Bloom / Flickr
• Boat Cruise Tour –
• Gondola Ride –
• 21 Tourist Places to Visit and Things to Do in Victoria, BC, Canada
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Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Central African Republic

15 Best Places to Visit in Central African Republic

The Central African Republic is arguably the richest country in the world when it comes to natural beauty and diversity of wildlife but in terms of money, the country is one of the world’s poorest. Landlocked between several other war torn countries and facing its own difficulties with poachers, military violence and general lawlessness, travel to the Central African Republic is strongly discouraged. The history of the country is, like most on the African continent, tarnished by the colonization by Europeans, the remnants of which can still be seen in some of the main cities.

The country does however have its charms which come in various shapes and sizes ranging from rare butterflies to gorillas and elephants. There is nowhere on earth that is more suitable for safaris and lovers of wildlife however even with such natural assets such as these the countries tourism cannot thrive due to its political problems.

The country is one of the least developed in the continent and even the world but the people of the country mostly remain friendly and honest. If a time comes soon when the country is safe again to travel too, then these are, in our opinion, the 15 best places to visit in the Central African Republic .

The capital of the Central African Republic, Bangui is situated on the banks of the Ubangi River. As with many African cities the nightlife and markets here are worth visiting. In addition to this, the presidential palace is a key attraction.

The setting of the city within the rapids of the Ubangi River and the rolling hills nearby make it a city with natural charm. Despite this, the city is rough and ready with dusty roads and an underdeveloped feel.

The so called Big Mosque is a popular place to visit and there are a number of museums that document both the colonization of the country as well as the culture of its indigenous people. The sights can be done in a couple of days but you may feel like sticking around for longer if you enjoy the atmosphere of the place.

This town may be small, measuring only 1km in length and 300m in width, but it is a valuable place to visit for tourists in the Central African Republic.

The wooden houses here are great examples of traditional Congo houses.

The people of the town are friendly and welcoming to tourists and the best way to arrive is by canoe or motorboat due to the town’s location on the Ubangi River.

3. Manovo-Gounda St Floris National Park

Located on the border between the Central African Republic and Chad, the Manovo-Gounda National Park is one of the finest places in the country to see wildlife.

The park covers a huge area of around 1.75 million hectares and is home to many species of animals including the incredibly rare black rhino. Other species found within the park include wild dogs, cheetahs, elephants and leopards.

There are many guided safaris available throughout the year which take place with local and knowledgeable guides.

4. Dzanga-Ndoki National Park

Another massive National Park and another massive reason to visit the Central African Republic. The National Park of Dzanga-Ndoki is located in the south-west of the country and has been around since 1990.

Despite ongoing trouble with animal poaching, the park is still an incredible place to visit and offers opportunities to see animals such as elephants and gorillas in their natural habitats.

Guided tours of the park can be arranged or, if you want to see this park and Manovo-Gounda, many companies can take you to visit both.

The small town of Boali is mainly visited for the nearby Boali Falls. These waterfalls are just upstream from the town and are possibly the best known landmark in the Central African Republic.

The falls consist of several small and separate falls in the dry seasons but in the wet season they join together to form a powerful and impressive fall.

Several tourism companies operate in the are and there is even a hotel and restaurant atop the falls.

6. Chinko Nature Reserve

Also known as the Chinko Project, the Chinko Nature Reserve based on the Chinko Drainage Basin. The nature reserve is home to many species and is seen as one of the most biologically diverse places on earth.

It is currently under threat from armed herdsmen who, during their crossing through the area,  kill any and all predators to protect their herd.

The reserve is also under threat from ivory poachers. Despite these threats the area is a fascinating place to visit and, if you are so inclined, it is also a great project to get involved in.

7. Andre Felix National Park

The Andre Felix National Park occupies both the Central African Republic and Sudan. The park is set in stunning terrain of lush green and jagged cliffs and is a haven for birdlife in particular.

The area of the park is just under 600,000 hectares, which is made up of around 50% shrubland and 50% forest.

The park can be explored with a local guide for a fee and is a great place to spend some time birdwatching.

To experience ancient Africa, the small town of Bouar is a must visit destination. Just outside of the town, there are a large number of stone megaliths known locally as Tajuna.

They are believed to mark burial grounds and some are as tall as 5 metres. The stones date back to the neolithic ages, making them just as old as Stonehenge in Great Britain but there are far more to see here.

The site is a UNSECO World Heritage Site.

Kembe is a traditional African village with its mud brick huts and thatched roofs. Nearby is the Kotto River which cascades in two streams to form a spectacular v shaped waterfall.

The children of the village play in the river, fighting against its strong current whilst the adults here use the river for more practical purposes such as washing clothes.

If you can reach Kembe; it is a great place to witness the simplicity of African village life.

Lobaye is a region in the Central African Republic. It is one of the best places to witness indigenous tribal people including Pygmy tribespeople.

The area is only 60 miles away from the capital but the lifestyles are vastly different.

Lobaye is also known for producing great coffee and visitors to the area can explore the plantations and learn more about how it is cultivated.

Birao is remote and not often visited. The city had an airport although it is currently not being used.

The city is a good place to get a feel of life in the Central African Repulbic and the nearby borders with Chad and Sudan make the markets even more varied than usual.

Be warned however that the city is thought of as being dangerous even by the standards of the country and travellers should exercise extreme caution.

Mbaiki is situated in the southwest of the Central African Republic, roughly 80 miles from the capital city of Bangui.

If you are in the capital and have your own set of wheels then you will be pleased to know that the road between Bangui and Mbaiki is the best in the country. The main economy in the city is based on coffee and timber and travellers can learn about both whilst visiting.

It is worth noting that a fee applies to use the road and using it at night is not advisable.

13. Bamingui

The town of Bamingui is in the north of the Central African Republic, around 250 miles from the capital city of Bangui.

The main reason to visit the town is as a base for visits to the nearby Bamingui-Bangoran National Park which is a haven for many species of mammals, birds and other creatures.

The flora is also extremely diverse and interesting due to the parks sub tropical ecosystem and its varying altitude between 400 and 1500 metres above sea level.

Bimbo is the second largest city in the Central African Republic and is located in the southwest of the country.

The city is a good example of city life in the country and bustling markets are a regular attraction.

The city is home to the country’s only sex segregated female prison. The population of the city has doubled in the last ten years and the atmosphere is loud and chaotic.

15. Berberati

Berberati is one of the more peaceful cities.

Located in the southwest of the country, far away from the troubles in the centre of the country and Sudan, Berberati is probably one of the safest places to visit in the country at this troubled time and is a good base for visitors to the nearby Dzangha-Sanga Nature Reserve.

Whilst in the area it is worth looking at the history left behind by the various occupants throughout the past such as the French military.

15 Best Places to Visit in Central African Republic:

• Manovo-Gounda St Floris National Park
• Dzanga-Ndoki National Park
• Chinko Nature Reserve
• Andre Felix National Park

Top 10 Destinations in North Africa

Planning a trip to  North Africa  is an exciting and infinitely rewarding experience. However, there is so much to see and do that deciding on an itinerary can be tricky.  Adrenaline junkies should consider a trip to the ski slopes of Morocco  or to Egypt's underwater reefs. Those with a passion for breathtaking scenery should plan a tour of the Sahara Desert, while history buffs will love Egypt's treasure trove of ancient sights . Wherever your adventures take you, try to visit at least one of the following iconic North African destinations.

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Perhaps the most iconic of Egypt's ancient sights, the Pyramids of Giza are located just outside Cairo . Comprising three different pyramid complexes, the site is one of the original Seven Wonders of the World. Of these, it is both the oldest and the only one that still survives today. The three main pyramids serve as the tombs of the pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. Khufu's pyramid (also known as the Great Pyramid of Giza) is the largest and dates back some 4,500 years. In front of the pyramids lies the Great Sphinx, a vast cat-like statue carved out of a single block of stone. Want to see more pyramids? Plan a trip to the ancient city of  Meroë  in Sudan. 

Marrakesh, Morocco

Nestled at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh is one of Morocco's four imperial cities. Not for the faint-hearted, it is a bustling metropolis filled with narrow streets, insistent hawkers, and a myriad of sounds and smells. It's also one of the most interesting cities in North Africa. Visitors come to Marrakesh to browse for treasures in the souks of the ancient medina, or to sample authentic Moroccan cuisine in the central square, Djemma El-Fna. Beautiful riads and serene hammams add to the experience, while the city's historic sights are well worth seeing. Start at the Saadian Tombs or  El Badi Palace .

Luxor, Egypt

The city of Luxor was built on and around the ancient site of Thebes, once the wealthiest city in ancient Egypt. The modern city has its own spectacular temple, as well as a series of excellent museums. Close to Luxor is the ancient site of Karnak, which was the most important place of worship for ancient Egyptians. Here you'll find a spectacular complex of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons, and obelisks, all dedicated to the Theban gods. Across the Nile from Luxor lie the royal burial grounds known as The Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. This is where you'll find the tomb of Tutankhamun.

Fes, Morocco

The most complete medieval city of the Arab world, Fes is a strange and appealing mix of Middle Ages meets the modern world. Fes was Morocco's capital for more than 400 years and is still considered the religious and cultural center of the country today. The extraordinary medina city of Fes El Bali is worth a few days walking in itself, and the city tanneries make for a fascinating visit. Other highlights include the Merenid Tombs, the Royal Palace, and the Mellah, or Jewish Quarter. Many visitors find that the city is less touristy and therefore more authentic than Marrakesh.

Siwa Oasis, Egypt

Siwa Oasis is located in Egypt's Western Desert, close to the Libyan border. Characterized by its abundant olive and palm groves, it is the country's most remote oasis town. As a result, its inhabitants have developed their own distinct culture. A decent road and a small airport have helped to put the town on the map, but it remains an off-the-beaten-track destination. Siwa Oasis is known for its geographical beauty, its hot springs, and the fact that Alexander the Great traveled here to visit the Oracle of Amun. Check out Fatnas Island and take a desert safari while you're here.

Tunis, Tunisia

There are many reasons to visit the capital of Tunisia . In particular, Tunis' ancient medina rivals that of the Moroccan medinas in Marrakech and Fes. The city is also home to one of the best museums in North Africa, the Bardo National Museum. It is housed in a beautiful palace and filled with treasures found at numerous ancient sites throughout Tunisia. While there are many hotels in Tunis, a light rail system makes it very easy to stay in the gorgeous coastal village of Sidi Bou Said , located just 20 minutes away. In between the two are the ancient ruins of Carthage.

Abu Simbel, Egypt

The two temples built for the Pharaoh Ramesses II at Abu Simbel have been attracting visitors since Victorian times. Almost as impressive as the monument itself is the story of its restoration in the 1960s. The temples had to be dismantled and physically moved 185 feet (60 meters) up a cliff where they were reassembled in the exact same relation to each other and the sun. A daily sound and light show should not be missed. You should also check out the Abu Simbel Festival, which takes place twice a year in February and October. Natural sunlight and architectural brilliance combine to light up the inner sanctum.

Atlas Mountains, Morocco

TripSavvy / Chris VR

The Atlas Mountains are a prime destination for trekking, with routes to suit a wide range of capabilities. Jebel Toubkal, situated in the High Atlas Mountains, is North Africa's highest peak at 13,667 feet (4,167 meters). It's a challenging trek to the summit, but worth it for the spectacular views. While you can make it to the summit and back to the town of Imlil in a day, it's recommended that you take at least three days to acclimatize and enjoy the scenery. During the winter months, skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts should head to nearby Oukaïmeden ski resort.

Ras Mohammed National Park, Egypt

The Red Sea offers some of the best scuba diving on the planet. Certified divers can explore Second World War shipwrecks, dive alongside bucket list animals including dolphins and sharks and discover pristine coral reefs. ​Ras Mohammed National Park is one of the most famous dive destinations in the Red Sea. Located off the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, it's the oldest national park in Egypt. It is renowned for its healthy corals and diverse marine life, with more than 1,000 recorded fish species. Top dive sites include Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef, where gray reef sharks and Napoleon wrasse are often spotted.

Sahara Desert, Tunisia

The Sahara Desert crosses every country in North Africa, but the section that runs through Tunisia is especially full of interesting and accessible sights. There are unique troglodyte dwellings around the Matmata area, which featured in the ​​" Star Wars " movies as homes on the planet of Tatooine. Equally fascinating are the stone forts and fortified granaries built into the desert mountains hundreds of years ago. The fort of Ksar Ouled Soltaine is particularly impressive. Beautiful dunes, salt lakes, and the ability to camp out under the stars at a tented hotel make the Tunisian Sahara a wonderful destination.

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