Top 10 African Destinations You MUST Visit

So rich is its diversity, culture, landscape, history, monuments, and wildlife. African destinations have something for each foot that steps in its soil. No wonder it is referred as Motherland. From the sighting of the big cats and primates to mountain hiking, desert safaris, relaxing in white sandy beaches to picturesque waterfalls visitors are spoilt for choice. Honestly, it could take an entire lifetime to exhaust the continent’s natural beauty.

It is no secret that Mama Africa has the largest population of wildlife in the world. Due to its massive forests and savanna land the animals roam freely in their natural habitats.  The vast continent is a magnet for the adventurous souls.

The land offers great destinations for honeymoon, site seeing, vacations, backpacking, romantic engagements and family- friendly activities. Here are 10 amazing destination countries that should be in every traveler’s bucket list.

Zimbabwe

The country is famous for its awesome views of the iconic Victoria Falls. Named in honor of the then England’s Queen Victoria by Livingstone, the roaring falls are 108 meters high. Situated in Southern Africa Zimbabwe is coveted for the lion walking tours at Antelope Park.

Do not miss to visit Hwange National Park, Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage, Kuiba Shiri Bird Sanctuary, Victoria Falls National Park, and Khami ruins, Lake Kariba, Gonarezhou National Park and Natural History Museum.

Botswana

Botswana is a beautiful and interesting place to visit. The adventure that emanates from this country is purely magical. The country offers some the best safari experiences and desert views in Southern Africa region.

The most impressive destinations in Botswana include Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Maun, and Moremi Game Reserve, rock formations at Kubu Islands, Central Kalahari Game Reserve, and Kasane.

South Africa

One of the most visited African destination. The country is best known for its wine, wildlife, adventures and scenic landscapes.

Experience the best of South African activities at Kruger National Park, Table Mountain, Shamwari Game Reserve, Ukutula Lion Park, Panthera Africa, Platteklip Gorge, Nambiti Game Reserve, Valley of Desolation, Drakensberg Mountains, and Lynix Wines.

Ever wanted to walk through the footsteps of African hero- Mandela? In Robben Island you will find Mandela’s cell, a place that held him captive for 18 of the 27 years he spent in prison.

Tanzania

There is no place that captures African beauty so well as this East African gem does. From the lush green sceneries to summiting the world’s largest free standing mountain – Mount Kilimanjaro, massive Serengeti Park wildlife, idyllic islands in Zanzibar, culture, history, and amazing beach life.

Tourists can enjoy visiting Pemba and Unguja Islands, Ngorongoro Conservancy, Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, Stone Town, Selous National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro and Kikuletwa hot springs. Zanzibar is infamous for its romantic honeymoon destination.

Quite admirable are the Tanzanian people humbleness, respect, and generosity, and hospitality, friendly and welcoming nature.

Kenya

Each year tourists flock the Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Park to witness the spectacular phenomena of wildebeests’ migration. In search of green pastures many animals cross the Mara River to Tanzania’s Serengeti.

Attractions vary depending on part of the country one decides to visit. Hell’s Gate National Park, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Center, Lamu Old Town, Mombasa Marine Park, Amboseli National Park, Mount Kenya National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park, Diani Beach and Lake Naivasha are some of the awesome places to check out while in Kenya.

Uganda

The landlocked country is perhaps best known for mountain gorilla trekking. Besides Bwindi National Park, the pearl of Africa remains largely unexplored. Resting in East Africa, Uganda’s raw nature and unspoilt beauty are quite fascinating.

It is home to Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Queen Elizabeth National park , Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Lake Bunyonyi, Lake Victoria, hot springs, Mount Sabinyo and Mount Ruwenzori.

Visitors can explore the source of River Nile. This world longest river sustains the Sahara region.

Ghana

Nestled in West Africa is the country that tasted independence first in the entire continent. A unique destination that offers visitors a chance to explore and enjoy the waterfalls, historical forts, botanical gardens , canopy walk, beaches, Africa Ashanti and Dashiki fabrics. Most travelers recommend the country as perfect place to newbies visiting the continent.

Hidden gems include Bojo Beach, Labadi Beach, Aburi Botanical Gardens, Boti Falls, and Wli waterfalls, Slave Fort, Mole National Park, International Stingless Bee Centre, Lake Bosumtwi, Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary and Cape Coast Castle.

Morocco

Stunning architectural designs, impressive street arts, sand dunes, beautiful cities, wealth of history and culture, and camel rides define Morocco. These attractions are just but a faint reflection of how blessed with attractions is this North Africa country.

The best places to visit are the blue Chefchaouen, Marrakech, Fes, Asilah, Meknes, Quarzazate, Erg Chebbi Dunes, Merzouga Desert, Legzira Beach and High Atlas Museum.

Egypt

The land of wonders is located in the Sahara Desert. Dominated by a plethora of old age pyramids and temples Egypt is packed with tourists’ activities.

Best activities and attractions include snorkeling in Hurgada and, Petra boat trips, Abu Simbel Temple Complex, Temple of Karnak, Khafre’s pyramid, Pyramid of Cheops, Great Sphinx, Valley of Kings, Luxor Museum and Memphis.

Mozambique

This breath taking African paradise features incredible islands and attractive Indian Ocean coastline. The Southern Africa country is endowed with marine life, mangroves, coral reefs, snorkeling and diving spots and arts.

For the best activities in Mozambique visit Gorongosa National Park, Tofo Beach, Vamizi Islands, Vilankulo, Bazaruto Archipelago, Quirimbas Archipelago, Inhaca Islands, Governor’s Palace Art Museum, Bara Beach and Marine Megafauna Foundation.

Take Away

Being the second largest continent Africa attracts people from far and wide. It is generally safe to visit Africa apart from few warring nations. It offers unforgettable experiences for luxury travelers as well as the budget travelers.

Visitors have an option of exploring Africa through organized tours by companies, self-drive, or as solo travelers. Different countries have different cultures, topography, currencies, attractions, seasons and laws.