Africa is one of those places that just has everything—wildlife, beaches, mountains, history… you name it. If you’ve ever thought about visiting, you’ve probably found yourself wondering, “Where do I even start?” Trust me, you’re not alone. Whether you want to go on a classic safari, chill on a beach, dive into history, or just enjoy the stunning scenery, there’s a place for it all. In this post, I’ve broken down the best countries to visit in Africa and what you absolutely have to do while you’re there. Enjoy!
1. South Africa: The Ultimate Adventure & Safari Destination
South Africa is a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of wildlife, history, and stunning landscapes.
Top Things to Do in South Africa:
- Safari in Kruger National Park: One of the largest game reserves in Africa, Kruger offers an unparalleled wildlife experience. Spot the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino) and other animals in their natural habitat.
- Table Mountain, Cape Town: Take a cable car ride or hike to the top of Table Mountain for panoramic views of Cape Town and its coastline.
- Cape Winelands: Enjoy wine tasting tours in the beautiful vineyards of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, just outside of Cape Town.
- Robben Island: Visit the former prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years, to learn about South Africa’s history and the fight against apartheid.
2. Kenya: The Heart of Safari and Culture
Kenya is synonymous with safari adventures, offering rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences.
Top Things to Do in Kenya:
- Maasai Mara National Reserve: Visit one of the world’s most famous wildlife reserves to witness the Great Migration (if you visit between July and October) or go on game drives to see lions, giraffes, and cheetahs.
- Amboseli National Park: Known for its iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is a top spot for elephant sightings.
- Nairobi National Park: A unique park located just outside the capital city, where you can spot giraffes, lions, and zebras against the city skyline.
- Cultural Visits with the Maasai Tribe: Experience the traditional lifestyle of the Maasai people through cultural tours and village visits.
3. Morocco: A Blend of Ancient History and Vibrant Culture
Morocco offers a fascinating blend of ancient history, culture, and landscapes, from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert.
Top Things to Do in Morocco:
- Visit Marrakech’s Medina: Wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets, explore the colorful souks (markets), and admire historical landmarks like the Koutoubia Mosque and the Bahia Palace.
- Ride Camels in the Sahara Desert: Take a camel trek across the golden dunes of the Sahara, and spend a night under the stars in a Berber tent.
- Fes and its Medina: Explore the ancient city of Fes, home to one of the world’s oldest universities and a bustling medina that offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich craftsmanship and culture.
- Hike the Atlas Mountains: For adventure lovers, the Atlas Mountains offer opportunities for hiking, trekking, and even skiing in the winter months.
4. Tanzania: The Serengeti and Zanzibar
Tanzania is one of the best destinations for safaris and beach holidays, offering a mix of world-renowned parks and idyllic islands.
Top Things to Do in Tanzania:
- Serengeti National Park: Known for its vast plains and as the site of the Great Migration, the Serengeti is a top choice for game viewing.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Often called the “Garden of Eden,” this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to an abundance of wildlife, including endangered black rhinos.
- Climb Mount Kilimanjaro: For adventure enthusiasts, climbing Africa’s highest peak is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Relax on Zanzibar: After a safari, unwind on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar, explore the spice farms, or visit the historic Stone Town.
5. Egypt: Wonders of the Ancient World
Egypt is a dream destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. The country is home to some of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, including the pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor.
Top Things to Do in Egypt:
- Explore the Pyramids of Giza: No trip to Egypt is complete without seeing the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. You can even take a camel ride around the Giza Plateau.
- Cruise the Nile River: Take a relaxing Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan, stopping at ancient temples, tombs, and the Valley of the Kings.
- Visit the Temples of Abu Simbel: These colossal temples, carved into the cliffs of southern Egypt, were relocated in the 1960s to avoid submersion by the Aswan High Dam.
- Dive in the Red Sea: For a beach and adventure combo, head to the Red Sea for some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world, especially around Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada.
6. Botswana: A Safari Lover’s Paradise
Botswana is renowned for its pristine wilderness and exceptional wildlife experiences, especially in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park.
Top Things to Do in Botswana:
- Okavango Delta: Take a mokoro (traditional dug-out canoe) ride through the delta’s waterways, home to elephants, lions, and a variety of bird species.
- Chobe National Park: Famous for its large herds of elephants, Chobe offers fantastic game viewing along the Chobe River.
- Makgadikgadi Pans: Visit the vast salt pans, remnants of an ancient lake, and experience one of the most unique landscapes in Africa.
- Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Known for its dramatic desert landscapes and predator sightings, this park is ideal for wildlife photography.
7. Namibia: Landscapes of the Otherworldly
Namibia is known for its surreal landscapes, from towering sand dunes to salt pans, offering a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
Top Things to Do in Namibia:
- Sossusvlei Sand Dunes: Explore the world’s tallest sand dunes in the Namib Desert and catch the breathtaking sunrise over the red sands.
- Etosha National Park: This wildlife haven is one of Africa’s best places to see elephants, lions, giraffes, and rhinos, especially around the waterholes.
- Skeleton Coast: Visit the desolate yet stunning coastline, known for its shipwrecks, eerie fog, and wildlife.
- Swakopmund: For an adventure-filled stop, enjoy sandboarding, quad biking, and skydiving in the coastal town of Swakopmund.
8. Uganda: The Pearl of Africa
Uganda is famous for its wildlife, especially gorilla trekking, and offers lush landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
Top Things to Do in Uganda:
- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Uganda is one of the few places in the world where you can go on a guided trek to see endangered mountain gorillas up close.
- Murchison Falls National Park: Witness the powerful Murchison Falls, where the Nile River plunges over a cliff, and enjoy a safari in the park.
- Lake Bunyonyi: Relax at this stunning, tranquil lake, known for its beautiful scenery and birdwatching opportunities.
- Explore the Rwenzori Mountains: The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” offer excellent trekking opportunities.
9. Zimbabwe: History and Wildlife Combined
Zimbabwe is an underrated gem in Southern Africa, offering incredible wildlife experiences, rich history, and spectacular natural landmarks.
Top Things to Do in Zimbabwe:
- Victoria Falls: One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is a must-see destination for its stunning waterfalls and adrenaline-packed activities like bungee jumping, rafting, and helicopter rides.
- Hwange National Park: Known for its large elephant herds, Hwange is a great place to spot diverse wildlife on game drives.
- Great Zimbabwe Ruins: Explore the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, that give insight into the country’s rich cultural history.
- Lake Kariba: Enjoy boating, fishing, and wildlife watching on this massive artificial lake.
Africa is one of the most uncommon tourist destinations and is definitely worth the visit! Whether you’re after a killer safari, a beach escape, or just curious about Africa in general, I recommend you take the trip! It will be worth it.
Want me to plan your trip to Africa? Just reach out via our Book Travel page and I will take care of the rest!