Check out our Africa Travel Guide to find the best things to do on your next trip to this astonishing continent!
Africa is full of diverse natural life, wealthy societies, and mind-blowing attractions. From bustling cities and ruins to staggering natural attractions, Africa has something for everybody. This guide will take you through a few of the best places to visit in Africa. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history lover, or looking to unwind, Africa has it all.
North Africa
Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a city that mixes antiquated history with advanced life. Sitting along the Nile River, it is popular for its extraordinary authentic destinations. The Pyramids of Giza, which are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, are a must-see. When you visit the pyramids, you can also see the Sphinx, a mammoth statue with a lion’s body and a human head. In the city center, the Egyptian Historical Center has thousands of artifacts, including treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb.
Cairo’s streets are lively and enthusiastic. The bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar is an extraordinary place to buy trinkets, spices, and appreciate the dynamic culture. Speaking of nourishment, do not miss trying koshari, a blend of rice, pasta, lentils, and tomato sauce, or ful medames, a dish made with fava beans. Cairo has energizing events like the Cairo Worldwide Film Festival and the Sphinx Festival, celebrating music and the arts.
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a city full of color and vitality. Its medina, a UNESCO World Heritage location, is a labyrinth of narrow boulevards filled with markets, known as souks. Here you can discover everything from spice flavors to high-quality goods. The Jardin Majorelle is a great garden, offering a quiet escape from the busy city. The Koutoubia Mosque is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture.
One of the best parts of going to Marrakech is attempting the lovely cuisine. Tagine, a slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, is a must-try, as is couscous, a dish made from steamed semolina grains. For dessert, test out pastilla, a cake filled with meat and spices, topped with powdered sugar. Marrakech is also known for its festivals, like the Marrakech Popular Arts Festival and the Marrakech International Film Festival, which bring the city to life with music, dance, and performances.
West Africa
Dakar, Senegal
Dakar, the capital of Senegal, is a dynamic city on the Atlantic coast. It’s known for its energetic music scene, excellent shorelines, and rich social legacy. One of the best attractions in Dakar is Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site that played a significant role in the Atlantic slave trade. Nowadays, it’s a place of reflection with its historical buildings and museums.
The African Renaissance Landmark, a towering statue overlooking the city, offers all-encompassing views and is an image of Africa’s progress. The Sandaga Market is a bustling place where you can shop for local crafts, materials, and fresh produce. Senegalese cuisine is scrumptious. It incorporates thieboudienne, a flavorful rice and fish dish. Yassa is chicken or fish marinated in lemon and onions. Maafe is a must-try shelled nut stew. Celebrations like the Dakar Biennale and the Saint-Louis Jazz Celebration are awesome times to visit and experience the nearby culture.
Accra, Ghana
Accra, the capital of Ghana, is a city that combines innovation with history. The city’s shorelines, such as Labadi Shoreline, are ideal for unwinding and enjoying the sea views. One of the most important historical sites is Cape Coast Castle, a former post utilized in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. It currently acts as a gallery and memorial.
The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park honors Ghana’s first president and is a beautiful place to learn about the country’s history. Accra’s food scene is diverse and delicious, highlighted by dishes like jollof rice, a spicy tomato-based rice dish, and banku, a fermented corn and cassava batter. Another must-try is fufu, a bland side made from cassava or yam. The city comes alive with events like the Chale Wote Street Art Festival, which showcases street art, music, and performances. Panafest is another big event that celebrates African culture and heritage.
East Africa
Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is a bustling city known for its unique mix of urban and natural attractions. RIght outside the city center, you’ll find Nairobi National Park. This expansive area home to an assortment of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and rhinos. An African safari is a must-do here. The Giraffe Centre is another popular attraction, where you can get up close to endangered Rothschild giraffes.
The Karen Blixen Museum, once the home of the famous author of “Out of Africa,” offers a glimpse into colonial history. Nairobi’s food scene is rich and varied, with dishes like nyama choma (grilled meat), ugali (a cornmeal staple), and sukuma wiki (collard greens). The city hosts exciting events such as the Nairobi International Book Fair and the Kenya Music Festival, which celebrate literature and the performing arts.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar is an island heaven off the coast of Tanzania, known for its stunning shorelines and rich history. Stone Town in the center of Zanzibar City is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring winding back streets, beautiful buildings, and an energetic market. The island’s shorelines, like Nungwi and Kendwa, offer white sands and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Jozani Woodland is home to the uncommon ruddy colobus monkey and is an extraordinary place for a nature walk. Zanzibari cooking is a delightful mix of flavors, with dishes like Zanzibari pizza (a one-of-a-kind street food), biryani, and fresh fish. The Zanzibar International Film Festival and the Mwaka Kogwa Festival, a traditional celebration marking the New Year, are wonderful times to visit. This is when you will get to experience the island’s vibrant culture.
A brief trip from Zanzibar is Serengeti National Park. When you arrive, you’ll feel as if you have ventured into a National Geographic documentary. Be sure to check out one of its many African safaris, from expansive group occasions to private family safari options.
Central Africa
Kigali, Rwanda
Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is a city known for its cleanliness, security, and green spaces. The Kigali Genocide Commemoration is a moving tribute to the casualties of the 1994 genocide and gives imperative insights into Rwanda’s history. The Inema Art Center grandstands modern Rwandan craftsmanship and is a center for creativity.
Mount Kigali offers stunning views of the city and is a well-known spot for hiking and outdoor adventure. Rwandan food incorporates dishes like brochettes (barbecued meat sticks), ugali (a maize-based dish), and isombe (cassava cooked with peanuts). The Kigali Up Music Celebration and the Rwanda Film Celebration are incredible occasions to experience the local culture and arts scene.
Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of the Congo, is a city with a blend of advancement and colonial charm. The Basilique Sainte-Anne is a dazzling case of cutting-edge African engineering. The Nabemba Tower, the tallest building in the city, offers extraordinary views. A boat trip on the Congo River is a must-do activity to see the city from a different perspective.
Congo’s food highlights dishes like saka-saka (cassava leaves), mwambe chicken (chicken in a shelled nut sauce), and cassava leaves cooked with angle or meat. Brazzaville has dynamic occasions like FESPAM (Pan-African Music Celebration), which celebrates African music, and the Congo Universal Film Festival, which exhibits movies from across the continent.
Southern Africa
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is one of the most excellent cities in the world, known for its dazzling characteristic views and diverse cultures. Table Mountain, a flat-topped mountain overlooking the city, is a must-visit for its beautiful views. Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, housed Nelson Mandela for many years during his imprisonment.
The V&A Waterfront is a bustling area with shops, eateries, and amusement. South African food is a blend of flavors, with dishes like bobotie (a spiced meat dish with an egg topping), biltong (dried cured meat), and Cape Malay curry. The city has occasions like the Cape Town International Jazz Festival and the Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts, which are well known for performances in a beautiful botanical garden setting.
Kruger National Park is also nearby. Here you’ll be able to see the Big 5 creatures: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo. This wonderful place is one of the most prevalent public-entry game parks in the world. The best time to visit is in September or October, when the park is at its driest.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Zambia
Victoria Falls is a breathtaking waterfall found on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. It is also one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Local people call it “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke that Thunders.” The falls shape a breathtaking scene, with water tumbling down a cliff into the Zambezi River in gigantic quantities.
Visitors can explore Victoria Falls National Park, swim in the Devil’s Pool at the edge of the falls, or take a helicopter ride for an ethereal view. Adrenaline seekers can check out activities like white-water rafting and bungee jumping. The neighborhood cooking incorporates dishes like sadza (a cornmeal dish), bream (a sort of fish), and nshima (a maize-based dish). The Victoria Falls Carnival and the Livingstone Social & Expressions Celebration are energizing times to visit. You’ll be able to experience local music, dancing, and cultural performances.
Your Experience Awaits!
Africa is a continent of endless wonders, offering diverse travel experiences that cater to every interest. From the busy streets of Cairo and Marrakech to the natural wonders of Victoria Falls and Cape Town, there’s something for everybody. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or wandering through vibrant cities, Africa guarantees exceptional adventures.
Now that you know the best places to visit in Africa, are you ready to travel? Contact Postcards and Pints today to begin arranging your dream trip! We’ll help you find the best deals on African travel, plus create personalized itineraries for an incredible experience.
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