The Best Places To Go In Africa For All Kinds Of Travelers
Keep reading for the best places to go in Africa for all kinds of travelers!
Although I struggle to answer what my favorite country is every time someone asks me that question, I can say without hesitation that my favorite continent is certainly Africa.
The thing about Africa is that once you go, it kind of has you in a chokehold for a lifetime. Take it from someone who has spent the last 15 years traveling to 12 different countries across this beautiful continent, and also living in Kenya for a good chunk of a time.
Most people are drawn to travel Africa for the wildlife and safaris available, which is understandable! However, you should know that African countries offer so much more than exotic animals. And my hope for you is that when you plan your safari, you also choose to extend your trip for additional activities, as well.
This post provides a round up of activities for all kinds of travelers interested in venturing to Africa. Plus, I’ll share specific African countries and regions best suited for each activity, so that you can fine tune your travel plans.
The Best Places To Go In Africa For All Kinds Of Travelers
I am so excited for you to plan your next African adventure! You’re going to have the time of your life, I just know it.
The biggest tip I can give you before you start planning is to remember that Africa as a continent is huge. And some of the African countries are also massive. Don’t assume that getting from one country to another is always simple, or fast. Remember that flights can add up, and overlanding can be a nightmare.
This is why I’d suggest to start with just one country first, or choose neighboring countries to save the hassle of too much movement when you only have a select time off for holiday. You don’t want to spend your days off on buses and planes, so make the most of your time by maximizing your locations.
You can always go back again!
Safari
We all know that Africa is famous for safaris. And rightfully so, the animals there are magnificent, to say the least. If you’re going to Africa, you can’t not go on a safari of some sort. This is must-do activity to add to your itinerary.
Make sure to check out my post on what to know before you go on safari before you make safari plans, to ensure that you choose the best place and time for you.
The Best Places To Safari In Africa
Okavango Delta, Botswana
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Masai Mara, Kenya
Serengeti, Tanzania
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Bwindi Forest, Uganda
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Victoria Falls, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya
South Luangwa Park, Zambia
Beaches
Beach lovers, you’ve hit the jackpot when it comes to African beaches. I’m not kidding when I say I truly believe the world’s most stunning beaches are in Africa. Hands down.
Whether you’re staying on the mainland, or venturing to African islands, I promise you won’t be disappointed by the beaches that Africa has to offer.
The Best Beaches In Africa
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Diani Beach, Kenya
Mahe Island, Seychelles
West Coast, Mauritius
Tofo Beach, Mozambique
Skeleton Bay, Namibia
Western Cape, South Africa
Lakka Beach, Sierra Leone
Hammamet, Tunisia
El Gouna, Egypt
Surf
There’s a reason international surf competitions are held in Africa every year…because the waves are epic!
Look, I can’t speak from experience here, because the truth is I’m a warm water surfer only (aka, a big ‘ole baby). But I can tell you that Africa is home to the longest wave in the world (Skeleton Bay), and attracts surf tourism year around.
The Best Surf In Africa
South Africa
Senegal
Namibia
Mozambique
Morocco
Mauritius
Madagascar
Sierra Leone
Liberia
Diving
You probably guessed with the stunning beaches, there’s got to be some good sealife too. And you were right, because Africa boasts world-renowned reef and diving across the continent.
I don’t dive, but I remember the first time I snorkeled in Kenya I was blown away by all that I saw. I felt like I was swimming through a fish tank, it was so vibrant with color and life. Plus, there are many dive sights within lakes and rivers of landlocked countries, as well!
The Best Diving In Africa
Egypt
Tanzania
Kenya
Senegal
Mozambique
Tunisia
South Africa
Botswana (landlocked)
Malawi (landlocked)
Trekking and Hiking
For my land people who aren’t as interested in all the water sports, and beach lounging- don’t worry, there’s plenty for you to explore by foot. Africa is home to some of the best trekking…in the world.
Keep in mind most of the treks are worth training for, and shouldn’t be taken lightly. While the hikes tend to be more accessible without intense training.
The Best Treks In Africa
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Mount Kenya, Kenya
Mount Toubkal, Morocco
Fish River Canyon, Namibia
Otter Trail, South Africa
Table Top Mountain, South Africa
The Drakensberg, South Africa
Mount Cameroon, Cameroon
Bwindi Forest, Uganda
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Museums
I’ll be honest, I’m usually not a big museum girlie. But something about African museums just hits differently. Perhaps it’s my obsession with the culture of each country, or the deep history that runs through the land.
Either way, I swear these museums are fascinating even for those of you who typically aren’t drawn to museums.
The Best Museums In Africa
Apartheid Museum, South Africa
Robbens Island, South Africa
House Of Slaves, Senegal
Kigali Genocide Memorial, Rwanda
Egyptian Museum, Egypt
Museum of Modern Art, Tanzania
National Museum of Ethiopia, Ethiopia
Wineries
Wine lovers, welcome to your paradise. And hey, even for my fellow sober Susans (like me!), you can still appreciate the beauty of wine countries throughout Africa.
There’s something especially stunning about visiting wineries in Africa, as the landscape tends to be dramatic and the atmosphere especially serene. Whether you’re on the hunt for good wine, or just looking for a nice food and spa town, these are some areas you won’t want to miss.
The Best Wine Destinations In Africa
Cape Winelands, South Africa
Meknes, Morocco
Naivasha, Kenya
Cape Town, South Africa
Cuisine
There are some countries in Africa that simply have the best food…like, ever. I’m not kidding when I say that I’d go back to some of these regions just for the food alone.
Sure, there are many regions and countries within Africa that have a more plain cuisine than you might be used to. But, when you get into the areas that love spices and herbs, and all things delicious- your belly is going to leave very happy, indeed.
I should note that I’ve only ever traveled Africa vegan, but I’ve traveled with plenty of non-vegan people who can vouch for the quality of meat and other carnivorous dishes that I personally haven’t tried myself.
The Best Cuisines In Africa
Vegan, Ethiopia
Biyarani, Zanzibar
Tagine, Morocco
Piri Piri Chicken, Mozambique
Barbeque, South Africa
Nyama Choma, Kenya
Chambo, Malawi
Koshari, Egypt
Get your bags packed, because you’re officially ready for your African adventure!
xx,
K