Africa, where adventure lies around every corner. Go on a game drives to see the ‘Big 5′, explore striking landscapes of thundering waterfalls, trek snow-capped mountains, and discover secluded white sandy beaches… Africa really does have it all!
There are endless wildlife series set in Africa, which always renewed me interest in the wild continent, making me yearn for dusty plains dotted with zebra and giraffe, underground souks filled with treasures, and wide golden sand beaches.
But Africa is not the easiest, safest or even cheapest continent to travel in though, so where exactly is best to visit and what are the unmissable things to do? View my tips for going backpacking and travelling in Africa which will hopefully help you plan a dream trip to this incredible continent.
Africa Travel Resources
These are my favourite companies to use when I travel.
• Find cheap flights with Skyscanner.
• Get the best deals on hotels on Booking.com.
Africa Tours
Search small group adventure tours with G Adventures or Contiki and discover the highlights of individual countries or book an overland adventure to explore different regions or the whole continent!
Popular Destinations
Africa is a huge continent with incredible cities, landscapes, cultures and wildlife. These are some of the most popular destinations to consider visiting.
Northern Africa
Egypt
Egypt is one of the most historic destinations with world famous attractions and must-see places you really need to visit once in your life including the Pyramids.
Morocco
Morocco is one of the safest and easiest African countries to travel around, and so if you want to do independent travel then this may be your place. You can hire a car here or even a pay local drivers for a good price, and public bus routes are plentiful. There’s plenty do too, including visiting the unique Kasbah castles made from sand, vibrant cities such as Marrakech and Fez, the Atlas Mountains and the relaxed beachside town of Essaouira.
Cape Verde
If you are looking to get away somewhere exotic and totally unique? Travel to the beautiful Cape Verde Islands! Perfect for beach and sun holidays, and independently exploration.
Southern Africa
South Africa
South Africa is a vast country full of nature, glamour, vibrant culture, poverty, and awe-inspiring landscapes, so trips here can be widely varied and full of contrast. Volunteer options are plentiful with both wildlife and people and there are also plenty of organised tours. Self drive trips can be an option too if you want to be more independent, areas best for this are around the Cape Winelands or the Garden Route. You could even try your hand at cage diving, hot air ballooning or surfing.
Botswana
Botswana is now one of the most up and coming safari destinations in the continent with exotic animals and great value for money sightseeing activities, tours and safaris.
Lesotho
Lesotho is a tiny landlocked country but visiting is a special experience. Prince Harry spent his gap year volunteer in Lesotho, and loved the experience. Some travel operators offering trips in Southern Africa include Lesotho in itineraries.
Eastern Africa
Kenya
Kenya again is another country where volunteer placements and safaris are plentiful, and although large cities like Nairobi are becoming more dangerous for foreigners to travel in alone, there are still many parts of the country which are trouble free. Top experiences in Kenya including visiting the warrior tribes of the Masai Mara, the beaches around Mombassa or going on safari
Tanzania
If safaris are one of your top priority then Tanzania is a good place to begin as it has around 14 national parks, ranging from the famous Serengeti to lesser known ones such as Arusha National Park. Tanzania is also home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, and a place on many people’s bucket lists. View my Zanzibar travel tips if you would like to experience a true paradise.
Uganda
If you’re looking for a quieter and safer pace of life than Kenya or Tanzania, then Uganda is a great option. What Uganda is great for is adventure activities. It’s a great place to try white water rafting near the source of the Nile, volcano hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains and trekking to see the mountain gorillas. There are also a number of safari parks where you’ll get to see the likes of the Big Five.
Ethiopia
Discover the highlight of Ethiopia a country famous for its coffee but there is so much more including stunning national parks and very friendly people.
Rwanda
The main attraction in Rwanda is the mountain gorillas and seeing them is worth the trip. A lot of overland tours of east Africa include Rwanda in the itinerary.
Malawi
Malawi is a country you might not have considered visiting, but if you do go you will enjoy the experience. There is the majestic Great Rift Valley, beautiful Lake Malawi and also lots of places to see exotic wildlife.
Djibouti
Are you looking to travel to one of the more under visited destinations in Africa? Plan a trip to Djibouti – one of the hottest places in the world!
Somaliland
If you tell anyone you’ve been to Somaliland they will likely be shocked, but this is Somaliland, not Somalia, and it is much safer. This country is definitely not on the backpacker trail, but if you do want to visit I’ve put together a handy guide.
Seychelles
Plan a trip to discover a real paradise with more than 100 beautiful islands. Visiting the Seychelles and exploring the secluded islands and turquoise ocean is a magical experience.
Western Africa
Ghana
If you’re after beautiful white sand beaches on the cheap, as well as many volunteering opportunities, then Ghana may be the answer. Situated on Africa’s west coast, the country is fringed by paradisiacal beaches and exotic palm trees. It also has a vibrant culture. Activities here include exploring castles and forts, fishing, visiting nature reserves, hiking and diving.
Off the Beaten Track
More options for destinations totally off the tourist trail include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Mali and Togo.
Must Visit Cities
• Sharm el Sheik, Egypt
• Cape Town, South Africa
• Cairo, Egypt
• Mombasa, Kenya
• Stone Town, Zanzibar
Best Things to Do in Africa
Here are some amazing places to go and activities to do.
Tick Off the Best African Safaris
An African safari is undoubtedly one of the best and most authentic experiences for animal lovers. The untamed and wild plains of Africa are home to some of the globe’s most impressive animals, including the Big Five – the lion, leopard, black rhino, elephant and cape buffalo.
Only on the mother continent can you see lions prowl along the horizon in search of prey, elephants frolic on the shores of rivers and giraffes munch on treetops while overlooking the vast landscape.
The beauty of a game drive in the wild is the unknown – will you see the start of the Great Migration as the first wildebeest make the dramatic journey across the river? Or will you watch as lurking crocodiles wait to attempt the take down of crossing mammals over twice their size.
The wilds of Africa are unforgiving, sometimes saddening and other times fascinating. But one thing’s for sure – you’ll never forget your first safari.
See the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt
As the only remaining ancient wonders of the world still in existence, the Great Pyramid of Giza is a must see in Egypt and its size can only truly be appreciated when seen with your own eyes.
Ancient Egypt is one of the oldest civilisations in the world and continues to hold the attention of archaeologists and history buffs all over the world.
Get Close to the Mountain Gorillas of Uganda
Deep in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda live a number of endangered mountain gorillas. Trekking in search for them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with very special memories.
It is a challenging hike, with steep ascents and descents and it could take you anywhere from an hour to eight hours to find the gorillas. All of this will quickly be forgotten as you catch your first glimpse of a Silverback and his family in the wild.
Explore Cape Town
South Africa is one of the top tourist destinations on the African continent and Cape Town is simply spectacular. This city really is a bucket list place to visit with breathtaking scenery, beaches and adventures.
Reach the Summit of Mount Kilimanjaro
Have you climbed the highest mountain in Africa? Not for the faint-hearted, there are several treks that will take you to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. People generally spend months training for this experience, where they will ascend to 5,895 metres above sea level. This is one of the most challenging experiences on our list, but that feeling of victory when you reach the summit will be unlike any other.
Swim in Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls
Forget fancy hotels, Zambia is home to the ultimate infinity pool. Attracting thrill-seekers who want to peer over the edge, Devil’s Pool is a natural pool on the top of Victoria Falls. You can take a dip between August and January when the water levels are low enough.
Experience the Sahara Desert
Another desert, a different experience. A highlight for anyone visiting Morocco is hiking deep into the Sahara Desert. You can stay overnight with a Berber community, a nomadic group who inhabit different parts of Morocco. Stay the night in their camp, gazing at the clear night sky.
Explore the Souks of Marrakech
Morocco is a tantalising blend of colours, spices, sounds and smells, with Marrakech being one of the most popular destinations in the country. The souks of Marrakech are world-renowned for being some of the most exotic and charming marketplaces to browse and pick up some unique finds. Enjoy a sensory overload as you wonder the narrow walkways and end the day with a satisfying pot of tagine.
White-water Rafting Down the Nile
Perfect for adrenaline-junkies, the Nile offers fantastic rafting opportunities. In Jinja, Uganda you can grab a raft and tackle the grade 3-5 rapids – but prepare to get wet! It is a must for anyone that wants a heart-pumping experience in one of the world’s most famous rivers!
Paddle a Mokoro Through the Okavango Delta
Have you been to Botswana’s unique wetland? The Okavango Delta is made up of a number of small islands which are home to huge amounts of flora and fauna. Glide slowly through the waterways on board a traditional mokoro, a canoe-like boat. Keep your eyes peeled for hippos, elephants and more.
Climb to the top of Dune 45, Namibia
This beast of a sand dune is located in the Namib Desert and stands over 80 metres high. Visitors who want to get their breath pumping can climb it and be rewarded with spectacular views at the top. You have to go before sunrise before the sun becomes unbearable but those who reach the top can enjoy breathtaking views across the desert.
Watch the Wildebeest Migration
If like us your favourite film is the Lion King, or you simply want to see wildlife in all its glory then the Wildebeest Migration in Kenya and Tanzania is the experience for you. Occurring between June and September thousands of wildebeest, zebra and gazelles migrate between the Masai Mara and Serengeti National Park, risking their lives on the dangerous river crossings. Huge Nile Crocodiles lie in wait for the poor herbivores as they cross in their herds.
Overlanding
Africa is the home of overlanding; trucks have been crossing these borders since the 1980s on journeys of exploration, adventure and fun! Your overland truck does not just get you from A to B. It’s your home from home; your comfy safari vehicle, your kitchen and your camping support vehicle.
Volunteer
A popular option for those keen to do something constructive is volunteering work. You can do everything from help on a conservation project in the rainforest to work with rural communities. There are building schemes, educational programmes and wildlife preservation activities that you can get involved with.
The best advice when it comes to choosing where to volunteer and what to do is to pick something that interests you – that way, even if the work itself isn’t overly interesting, you’ll still get something from it. Don’t underestimate how rewarding it can be when you’re helping in a community that has very little.
Volunteering in Africa really is an excellent way to see another side to the country you’re visiting and to interact with people who you’d never otherwise meet.
Tasty Food to Try
These are some of the best local specialities to sample.
Bunny Chow (South Africa)
We know what you’re thinking and to answer your question, no, Bunny Chow doesn’t actually involve any kind of rabbit meat. The main ingredients for this delicious recipe are chicken, chickpeas, potatoes and bread. Make sure you’re hungry before you start tucking in, we guarantee you won’t be able to stop eating.
Mchuzi Wa Samaki (Tanzania)
Mchuzi wa samaki is a fish curry that can be found in many countries in East Africa but is said to have originated from the paradisiac island Zanzibar, just off the Tanzanian coast. You can tell that the dish has been inspired by idyllic island life – it’s a meal rich in unique flavours but you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to get there. In fact, this mild curry can be cooked in just 50 minutes.
Falafels (North Africa)
We’re aware that falafels may not be the exotic recipe you were waiting for. Although it’s a traditional Middle Eastern dish, falafels have gained a lot of popularity over the years and can now be found in every supermarket. Whether you’ve tasted a falafel that’s worthy of the name is another question.
Tagine (Morocco)
Anyone looking for a lifestyle change during lockdown will want to make a note of the healthy, yet incredibly delicious Moroccan tagine. Tagines can be compared to stews (but a lot richer in flavour) and the base ingredients are usually potatoes, carrots and onions. There are many different versions of tagine, we’ve opted for a vegetarian option as it’s a good starting point to get a feel for the dish but there’s definitely room to make this meal your new signature dish.
Plan Your Trip to Africa
I love Africa, every country is different and there is just something special about traveling in a region which is defiantly less touristy than other destinations. For advice on specific locations view my country guides.