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Best places to visit in africa for 2023-2024.

Africa may not always register on the average traveler's radar, but those who visit have the chance to experience the perfect blend of ancient and modern, wild and urban, and East and West. From Cape Town's coastal beauty to Tanzania's game reserves, choosing your adventure on the second-largest continent can be difficult. To help you start planning, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Africa based on accessibility, affordability and the variety of things to do, as well as user votes and expert opinions. Help us choose next year's top spots by voting for your favorite destinations below. 

Serengeti National Park

Victoria falls, masai mara national reserve, kruger national park.

If you're enamored with the prospect of coming face to face with elephants, giraffes, zebras and wildebeests, then a safari tour through Tanzania's Serengeti National Park is the bucket-list adventure for you. The price will be steep, but a journey here affords an unforgettable African savanna experience. To save some coin, book one of the park's campgrounds instead of staying at a high-end safari lodge or luxury tented camp. Plan on arriving in January or February (calving season) or between June and October (dry season and prime migration time) for the best game-viewing conditions.

Outdoorsy types travel far and wide to admire this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Victoria Falls is roughly twice as deep and wide as Niagara Falls, making it one of the world's most jaw-dropping waterfalls . To see this natural wonder at its prime, plan a visit in April or May when the region's rainy season has concluded. Popular vantage points include the Knife-Edge Bridge, Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool. When you're not enjoying the view from above, go whitewater rafting in the Zambezi River to admire the falls from a different angle.

Most tourists head to Tanzania to go on safari, but you'd be remiss if you didn't save time for the country's other must-see treasures. In addition to its animal-filled plains, Tanzania boasts otherworldly natural wonders, including red-hued Lake Natron, Ngorongoro Conservation Area's expansive crater and Mount Kilimanjaro – the tallest mountain in Africa (and largest free-standing mountain on Earth). For the ultimate adrenaline rush, book a climbing excursion up the continent's famous mountain through a local tour operator.

Mauritius appeals to vacationers in search of a bit of everything. Though its main draws are its powdery sands and luxe beach resorts , this small island nation east of Madagascar also charms visitors with its mix of cultures; friendly locals; lively festivals and tasty teas and rums. After a day of exploring some of the island's nature reserves and soaking up the sun, retreat to one of its premier properties to savor fresh seafood while watching a traditional sega dance performance or the sun set over the Indian Ocean.

Home to cheetahs, elephants, lions, wildebeests, hippos and more, Masai Mara National Reserve is one of Kenya's premier spots to see wildlife. Sign up for a safari to explore this protected area's 373,000-plus acres of rolling grasslands. (Tip: Look for companies with guides certified by the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association.) For an extra dose of adventure, opt for a horseback riding excursion or hot air balloon safari. To increase your chances of spotting the big five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes) and other migrating animals, time your visit between July and October during the Great Migration.

Zanzibar offers something for everyone, whether you're in search of beautiful white sand beaches or an unforgettable adventure. After trekking to this Indian Ocean archipelago off the coast of East Africa, you'll instantly feel at ease as you lounge on quiet beaches like Matemwe and Kiwengwa. Next, visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Town, where you'll find the ruins of a 19th-century palace and a graveyard with ties to Zanzibar's former Arab royals. And no trip would be complete without taking a spice tour in the countryside and exploring Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. As an added bonus, you'll find this is a surprisingly cheap tropical destination .

A grouping of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles has long attracted those looking for a truly relaxing, off-the-beaten-path getaway. Spend your days lounging on pristine, crowd-free beaches like Anse Lazio and Anse Source D'Argent, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Or, head deep into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Vallée de Mai nature reserve to gaze at its unique flora and fauna. Keep in mind that lodging here is expensive (especially at the luxury resorts), so it's best to save up and book in advance.

With numerous hiking trails, miles of dramatic scenery and stunning beaches (including one with wild penguins), this South Africa hub caters to both adventurous and laid-back travelers. Getting to Cape Town won't be cheap, but your dollar will go far once you arrive. Make sure you take the aerial cableway up Table Mountain, visit Nelson Mandela's jail cell on Robben Island and explore the world-renowned Constantia Valley wine region. You'll also want to save time to trek through the Cape of Good Hope, which lies 40 miles south of Cape Town on the southern tip of Africa.

Cairo can be overwhelming, as there's so much to see and do everywhere you turn. From Islamic Cairo's bustling Khan El-Khalili bazaar to the ancient Pyramids of Giza to the picturesque Nile River, you'll be immersed in this Egyptian city's history and culture before long. Though winter offers the most pleasant weather of the year (with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s), it's also the busiest season, so consider visiting in spring or fall when room rates are lower, temps are bearable and crowds thin out.

Like other historic Moroccan cities, Marrakech buzzes with life: Performers vie for your attention in Jemaa El Fna (an open-air square in the heart of the Medina of Marrakesh) while vendors hawk aromatic spices, homemade textiles, ornate lanterns and more at the bazaars along the alleyways. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, unwind at a hammam, visit the Jardin Majorelle or head to a rooftop bar and relax before retiring to your riad. During your visit, keep an ear out to hear the striking tones of the nearby mosques' calls to prayer.

You'll spot plenty of animals – ranging from lions to rhinos to elephants to giraffes – in this massive game preserve in South Africa. Kruger National Park's network of paved roads makes it easier to navigate than Serengeti, and it tends to be cheaper to visit. However, its popularity (especially from May to October, which are the best months for wildlife viewing) means you're more likely to encounter hordes of visitors during game drives. Consider visiting one of the park's private game reserves for a more exclusive experience, and to ensure lodging, flight and tour availability, you'll likely want to finalize your trip at least a year in advance.

The habitat on the island of Madagascar is unlike any other in the world: Most of the landscape is unspoiled, giving visitors a chance to see animals in their natural environment. Travelers should look out for the country's signature animal: the lemur. Madagascar is home to more than 100 species of these creatures, as well as 11,000-plus plant species, including majestic baobab trees. Some of the best places to see wildlife and Madagascar's geological wonders include Isalo National Park and Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve. Be sure to save some time to island hop to Nosy Be for its world-class beaches.

Despite its small size and landlocked location in southeastern Africa, Malawi draws visitors with its gorgeous lake, diverse wildlife and friendly people. At Lake Malawi, one of the deepest lakes in the world, travelers can enjoy water sports activities like kayaking and sailing, soak up some sun on a white sand beach or dive beneath the lake's surface to look for colorful cichlid fish. The tiny country also features nine national parks and wildlife reserves, making it an excellent less-crowded option for a self-drive or a guided safari. For the best wildlife viewing, arrive during the dry season, which lasts from May to October.

Adventurous travelers who dream of spending their vacation surrounded by nature will love Botswana. A less crowded alternative to nearby safari destinations like South Africa and Tanzania, Botswana has a strong conservation focus and offers ample opportunities to spot rhinos, elephants and more in protected areas like Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve, the oldest reserve of the Okavango Delta. Plus, adrenaline junkies can participate in all kinds of heart-pumping activities, including quad biking, mokoro (canoe) safaris and helicopter tours.

Kenya's capital city offers the perfect blend of urban pursuits and natural splendor. With museums highlighting its pre- and post-colonial heritage, bustling street markets and a thriving nightlife scene, Nairobi is a cultural hub. But its proximity to (and preservation of) wildlife is what makes Nairobi one of the world's most unique cities. The city boasts its own national park – Nairobi National Park, whose grassy plains host 100-plus mammal species including black rhinos – as well as wildlife conservation parks such as the Giraffe Centre and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. What's more, scenery seekers can also visit the urban Karura Forest or hike the surrounding Ngong Hills.

Multi-Day Tours with Culture Trip

Experience deeply immersive 7-14 days itineraries with a small group of like-minded people. See all tours

Morocco 11 Day s

Epic Morocco

Ancient cities, Atlas Mountains and Saharan dunes – meet the many faces of Morocco.

Egypt 9 Day s

Ultimate Egypt

Explore the pyramids of Giza, cruise the Nile and visit the Valley of the Kings.

Turkey 12 Day s

Majestic Turkey

The ultimate Turkish itinerary, from the bazaars of Istanbul to the beautiful beaches of Antalya.

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Alexandria, Egypt

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15 Best Countries to Visit in Africa in 2024

Home | Travel | 15 Best Countries to Visit in Africa in 2024

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Finding the best country to visit in Africa isn’t always easy, as this vast continent is full of amazing wildlife, magnificent landscapes, and outdoor adventure. Where else can you see wild elephants, the ancient wonders of the pyramids, and the world’s largest waterfall?

There’s no denying that Africa is home to some of the most impressive places on the planet. However, choosing exactly where to go is pretty challenging. You want adventure and natural beauty, but you also want to go to a safe African country .

Don’t worry; I’ll share the 15 best places to visit in Africa so you can plan the ultimate getaway, whether you’re traveling with friends, as a couple, or for a family vacation.

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Now, let’s jump into the top travel destinations in Africa !

1. Egypt, one of the overall best African countries to visit

Egypt links Northeast Africa to the Middle East, with its eastern edge bordering the Red Sea. The country is full of incredible monuments testifying to the area’s rich history and culture.

For example, the Great Pyramid of Giza is the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World. It’s accompanied by the Pyramid of Menkaure, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Great Sphinx of Giza, which has a lion’s body and a human head said to depict Pharoh Khafre. On this day tour , you can explore the Pyramids of Giza, Sakkara and Memphis.

The Nile River runs through Egypt, offering another beautiful place in Africa to explore. The best way to see the river is by taking a cruise like this one , which includes dinner and tanoura (Egyptian folk dance) performers.

The Nile River runs through the Egyptian capital of Cairo , which is well worth a visit. In addition to the Giza Pyramids Complex, Cairo is home to incredible museums and mosques. From here, you can take a day trip to see another travel destination in Africa : the city of Alexandria . This tour includes lunch and a visit to the famous Library of Alexandria, old theaters, catacombs, and citadels.

I also recommend spending time in Luxor , where the ancient city of Thebes once stood. On this day trip from Hurghada, you can visit the Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, and the royal tombs in the Valley of Kings.

You can even visit the beach in Egypt. Sharm El Sheikh has white sand beaches and beautiful coral reefs, while Hurghada offers opportunities to swim in the Red Sea . If you’re interested, I recommend this diving excursion , which includes the option to obtain PADI certification.

As you can see, there is plenty to do in Egypt, so if you prefer a vacation package, I suggest this 9-day tour that includes all the must-see attractions. Also, don’t forget to buy one of the best Egyptian SIM cards so you can access the Internet in Egypt and stay connected with family and friends.

• Marriott Mena House (Cairo)
• Elite Pyramids Boutique Hotel (Giza)
• Steigenberger Aldau Beach Hotel (Hurghada)

2. Kenya, the best country to visit in Africa for safari

Thanks to its wealth of activities and attractions, Kenya is one of the best places for first-timers to visit in Africa . The country straddles the equator, so rather than 4 seasons, it has dry seasons (December-March, July-October) and rainy seasons (April-June, November-December).

Kenya’s national parks are one-of-a-kind, offering plenty of opportunities for eco-tourism, wildlife spotting, and nature activities. Maasai Mara National Reserve is in the southwest, near the Tanzania border, and has the country’s highest concentration of wildlife. In addition to the annual wildebeest migration, you can see cheetahs, elephants, hippos, leopards, lions, rhinos, and zebras.

Hell’s Gate National Park is known for its imposing cliffs and recreational activities, like hiking, rock climbing, and biking. Meanwhile, Lake Nakuru National Park is home to its namesake lake, inhabited by pink flamingos and rhinos.

Of course, most people come to Kenya because it’s the best country to visit in Africa for safari tours . Some of the most recommended places to go on safari in Kenya are Nairobi National Park, the Mara Triangle in Maasai Mara, and Mount Kenya National Park. If you don’t want to do so much planning, consider this 8-day safari package that starts and ends in Nairobi.

Speaking of which, it’s worth spending some time in Nairobi . The capital city is also known as Kenya’s cultural and economic center, boasting restaurants, shops, nightlife, and institutions like the National Museum of Kenya.

Finally, Kenya has a beautiful coastline along the Indian Sea. In addition to the mangroves, forests, and ruins, you can visit Diani Beach , considered the best beach in Africa.

• Ziwa Bush Lodge (Nakuru)
• The Sands at Chale Island (Chale Island)
• Ololo Safari Lodge (Nairobi)
• Olare Mara Kempinski (Maasai Mara)

3. Morocco, one of the best places to visit in Africa as a couple

With its famous blue houses and colorful markets, Morocco is one of the most aesthetically pleasing countries in Africa . In addition to its sights, tastes, and aromas, it has attractions that appeal to all types of travelers.

First, the capital city of Marrakesh has a little bit of everything, from mosques and palaces to gardens and bustling marketplaces. You can even pamper yourself with an indulgent hammam experience . Of course, you must see Jemaa el-Fnaa square , the 12 th -century Bab Agnaou gate , and the ancient gardens of Menara or Majorelle . Marrakesh is also home to historic palaces and tombs that you must see for yourself.

In the port city of Casablanca , you’ll find the stunning Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, with its intricate architecture and breathtaking ocean views. The cultural capital of Fez is home to some of the world’s oldest schools, such as the University of Al Quaraouiyine and Bou Inania Madrasa. You can also take this day trip from Casablanca to Chefchaouen , known as the “Blue City.”

Morocco also has incredible natural spaces that make it one of the most visited African countries . A couple of hours east of Marrakesh, the Ouzoud Falls stand 350 feet tall and consist of three sections. This day tour from the capital takes you on a guided hike to see the waterfalls and all the highlights.

There is also this 3-day excursion from Marrakesh through the Sahara Desert. Along the way, you’ll visit the village of Aït Ben Haddou , a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the dunes of Erg Chebbi , Merzouga , and the city of Ouarzazate , known as the “Door to the Desert.”

If you prefer, you can take this hiking excursion in the Atlas Mountains. And if you can’t decide, I suggest this 10-day vacation package that includes Marrakesh, Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Fez, and Merzouga.

• Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech (Marrakech)
• Casablanca Le Lido Thalasso & Spa (Casablanca)
• Fes Marriott Hotel Jnan Palace (Fez)

4. Namibia, the best African country to visit for nature lovers

Namibia is one of the best countries to visit in southern Africa for those who want to get off the beaten path. It’s also a photographer’s dream, thanks to its national parks, canyons, giant boulders, and ancient rock art.

For starters, check out the capital of Windhoek , which has an interesting blend of African and German influences. Then, head southwest toward Sossusvlei , home to Namib-Naukluft National Park. As part of the Namib Sand Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts towering, fiery red dunes.

Further south, the Fish River Canyon is one of the most famous canyons in Africa and the second-largest in the world, measuring 100 miles long, 17 miles wide, and 1,805 feet deep. The ravine and outcroppings are great for hiking, camping, and spotting animals like springbok.

Toward the northern part of the country, Spitzkoppe is another cool place to camp. This desert area has granite peaks that are over 120 million years old, so you can get breathtaking views here. Its giant boulders make it a hotspot for rock climbing. Twyfelfontein is another impressive place to visit in Africa . It was Namibia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and consists of ancient rock art and engravings from the Stone Age.

Finally, Etosha National Park is a highlight of any trip to Namibia. This vast park is full of attractions, such as a 1,850-square-mile salt pan, viewing decks, campsites, and wildlife. Over 114 mammal and 340 bird species live here, so you’ll find everything from flamingos and elephants to lions and rhinos.

If you want to explore Namibia on your own, this 13-day camping safari is a great way to see all the highlights. It starts and ends in Windhoek and visits Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei, Etosha National Park, and more.

• Hilton Windhoek (Windhoek)
• Dead Valley Lodge (Sesriem)
• Toshari Lodge (Okaukuejo)

5. South Africa, one of the best countries in Africa to visit for culture

South Africa is one of the best places to vacation in Africa , so it’s worth taking the long journey here. A good place to start your adventure is in the capital of Cape Town , a city full of stunning vistas, a bustling harbor, and historical landmarks.

Cape Town is one of the best African cities to visit , not only for its attractions but also because it’s close to several other points of interest. For example, just 30 miles east, you’ll find the Cape Dutch architecture and vineyards of Stellenbosch . About 2.5 hours northeast of Cape Town, the Inverdoorn Game Reserve is where you can see the Big 5: buffalo, elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinos.

An hour south of Cape Town, the Cape of Good Hope awaits with its scenic views. The shoreline here includes Boulder Beach , where African penguins are often found. You can take a day tour of both areas from Cape Town. If you prefer something more adventurous, check out this shark cage diving cruise in Hermanus or this seal snorkeling excursion in Hout Bay .

There is also Robben Island , located 7.5 miles off the coast of Cape Town. You can take the ferry from the capital to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a stark reminder of apartheid in South Africa. The Robben Island Museum is a living history museum and former prison where Nelson Mandela served 18 of his 27-year sentence.

Besides Cape Town, I recommend visiting the cultural hub of Johannesburg . After enjoying its sights, take this full-day safari to Pilanesberg National Park . Alternatively, this excursion to Addo Elephant National Park and this day tour to Kruger National Park are sure to please.

Finally, the coastal city of Durban is full of surfing, museums, sports, and natural spaces.

• Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton (Johannesburg)
• The Table Bay Hotel (Cape Town)
• The Oyster Box (Durban)

6. Tanzania, the best place to visit in Africa to see animals

Tanzania is a haven for animal lovers since you can see various wild species here. As one of the best places to go in Africa for safari , Tanzania has several incredible national parks and conservation areas full of cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, leopards, lions, wildebeest, zebras, and more.

If you want to go wildlife spotting, you have plenty of options, such as this 6-day safari or this 8-day safari . These excursions go through the amazing landscapes of Arusha National Park , Tarangire National Park , Serengeti National Park , the Ngorongoro Conservation Area , Lake Manyara National Park , and the Materuni Waterfalls.

In addition to safari tours, you can visit Mount Kilimanjaro , one of Tanzania’s highlights. This dormant volcano is Africa’s tallest mountain, offering ample trekking and camping opportunities. Climbing Kilimanjaro is quite an adventure, but if you’re up for it, consider this 10-day climb along the Lemosho Route or this 8-day hike on the Rongai Route.

Finally, take advantage of your trip to see Zanzibar , one of the best African islands to visit . Zanzibar is located 50 miles off the eastern coast of Tanzania. While you can visit on your own, I recommend booking a safari that includes the mainland’s top attractions and the island. For example, this 12-day package starts in Arusha, goes to several national parks, and wraps up in Stone Town, Zanzibar.

• Melia Zanzibar (Kiwengwa, Zanzibar)
• The Residence Zanzibar (Kizimkazi, Zanzibar)
• Mizingani Seafront Hotel (Stone Town, Zanzibar)
• Arusha Africa Safari (Arusha)

7. Botswana, one of the best countries in Africa to visit for outdoor enthusiasts

Botswana is another beautiful place in Africa , and it’s perfect for those who love spending time outdoors. Most of Botswana’s attractions are concentrated in the northern part of the country. However, if you’re flying into the capital city of Gaborone in the south, you can explore its shops and museums, as well as the Mokolodi Nature Reserve , which has vulnerable species like the southern white rhinoceros.

Chobe National Park is another place to see wild animals in Botswana. The biodiversity here is unmatched and includes lions, elephants, zebras, impalas, African buffalo, kudus, giraffes, and more. You can also do some excellent bird-watching here, so keep your eyes peeled for African darters, lilac-breasted rollers, African skimmers, and Goliath herons.

About 215 miles south of Chobe, you’ll find Jack’s Camp , a luxury safari camp. While some of the glamping tents are a bit over the top, the standout feature is the variety of wildlife, including meerkats, hyenas, lions, aardvarks, honey badgers, and bat-eared foxes.

Also, if you’re passionate about photography like us, you’ll love the Okavango Delta region. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, full of wetlands, lagoons, salt islands, and a wide array of wildlife and bird species. This 7-day safari goes through Okavango and Chobe National Park, while this 10-day excursion starts in Johannesburg and goes through Okavango and Chobe, ending at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. This 14-day safari goes through Botswana’s top parks and reserves.

Finally, if you’re going to be in the country’s southern region, you can appreciate the Khoisan , or Bushmen, of Botswana. This indigenous hunter-gatherer community dates back over 10,000 years and is known for its unique clicking language.

• The Waterfront (Maun)
• Waterside Cottages (Gaborone)
• Mankwe Camping (Chiro Pan)
• Omogolo Hideaways (South Okavango)
• Mababe River Lodge & Campsite (Mababe)

8. Ethiopia, the best country to visit in Africa for food and culture

If you’re looking for places to visit in Africa , don’t overlook Ethiopia . This interesting country has parks, historical monuments, religious structures, and World Heritage Sites. A good place to begin your adventure is in the capital, Addis Ababa , where you can take a sightseeing tour or market tour to enjoy culinary delights and Ethiopian coffee.

Ethiopia’s smaller towns offer plenty of things to do, too. Aksum holds great religious significance and is home to ancient ruins, obelisks, and churches. Gondar is known for its fortress of the Fasil Ghebbi royal palace, while Harar is an old walled city with holy relics and ancient gates. There is also Lalibela , a beautiful African city dating back to around the 11 th century. Here, you can see the famous churches carved out of the rock.

One of the most impressive areas of Ethiopia is the Danakil Depression , a geological formation caused by continental drift. It’s said to be the hottest place on Earth, home to lava lakes, salt lakes, acidic hot springs, and volcanoes.

I must also mention Simien Mountains National Park , where you can witness the highest point in Ethiopia and endangered species like the walia ibex, the gelada baboon, and the bearded vulture. This full-day hiking tour takes you along one of the scenic mountain paths.

If you’re having trouble deciding what to do, consider this day trip from Addis Ababa. It includes a bit of everything: religious architecture, ancient sites, natural structures, breathtaking vistas, and wildlife.

• Golden Tulip Addis Ababa (Addis Ababa)
• Best Western Plus Addis Ababa (Addis Ababa)
• Gondar Hills Resort (Gondar)

9. The Seychelles, the best African island country to visit

The Seychelles is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean located about 1,100 miles off the east-central coast of Africa. This country consists of 115 individual islands, most of which are uninhabited. Some of the most visited islands are Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.

Mah é is one of the best African islands to visit and the largest island of Seychelles. It’s home to the capital city, Victoria , and lovely white sand beaches. You can take this day tour to explore Victoria’s Creole architecture, markets, and botanical gardens, followed by the beach of Anse Intendance. I also recommend this boat excursion  from Mahé to St. Anne National Marine Park .

It’s also worth visiting Praslin , Seychelles’ second-largest island. Here, you can see the Vall ée de Mai Nature Reserve , a UNESCO World Heritage Site with giant coco-de-mer palm trees and endemic birds, reptiles, and insects. Anse Lazio is one of the most beautiful beaches on Praslin, and you can take this excursion to see both the beach and the nature reserve in one day.

From Praslin, you can hop on a boat to see Curieuse and St. Pierre , two smaller nearby islands with natural scenery, wildlife, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. On Curieuse, you can see the critically endangered Seychelles giant tortoises at Curieuse Marine National Park . I recommend this day trip from Praslin, which includes hotel pick-up and lunch.

Finally, La Digue has a relaxing atmosphere, striking granite boulders, and breathtaking beaches like Anse Source d’Argent and Grand Anse. The island’s laid-back environment and recreational activities, like hiking and watersports, make it perfect for a romantic getaway.

Overall, the Seychelles is one of the best countries to visit for couples , perhaps for a honeymoon. I suggest spending at least a week here, but ideally two.

• Constance Lemuria Resort (Grand’Anse, La Digue)
• Kempinski Seychelles Resort (Baie Lazare Mahé)
• Savoy Hotel & Spa (Beau Vallon, Mahé)

10. Rwanda, one of the best places to visit in Africa for gorilla trekking

Thanks to its location in the Great Rift Valley, Rwanda is known as the Land of a Thousand Hills. It’s without a doubt one of the prettiest places in Africa and generally safe for tourists.

Most people begin their journey in the capital city of Kigali, which is surrounded by rolling hills. This sightseeing tour is a great way to get to know the city’s food, culture, history, and architecture. You can embark on different excursions from Kigali, such as this safari to Akagera National Park . Akagera is home to the Big 5 (buffalo, elephants, leopards, lions, rhinos) and a variety of big cats like cheetahs. You can also take this gorilla-trekking excursion from Kigali to Mghahinga National Park in Uganda or this 5-day safari .

Rwandans are very respectful of wild animals, so gorilla trekking, bird watching, and safaris are popular here. In addition to Akagera, the Nyungwe Forest and Gishwati-Mukura National Park are worth checking out. The former boasts rainforests and wetlands full of primate species like chimps, golden monkeys, and baboons, while the latter contains a variety of flora, primates, birds, and reptiles.

For a change of scenery, head to the Virunga Mountains , a chain of volcanoes partly in northcentral Rwanda. Volcanoes National Park sits within this volcanic mountain chain, offering unique trekking opportunities and the chance to spot gorillas in the wild.

Also, despite being landlocked, you can still go to the beach in Rwanda. Lake Kivu straddles the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and along the shores of the lake, you can visit the beaches of Gisenyi .

To the south, Nyanza was the old capital of Rwanda and still has a traditional umwami palace.

• Kigali Marriott Hotel (Kigali)
• Radisson Blu Hotel & Conference Centre (Kigali)
• Hotel des Mille Collines (Kigali)

11. Uganda, the best African country to visit for an unforgettable experience

Crossing over the northern border of Rwanda, you can explore Uganda ‘s landscapes and scenery. The southwestern edge of Uganda has a string of national parks, including Bwindi Impenetrable Forest , Queen Elizabeth , Rwenzori Mountains , Kibale , and Semuliki .

Another gorgeous spot is Lake Mburo National Park , one of the best places to visit in Africa for wildlife. Here, you can see giraffes, hippos, hyenas, impalas, leopards, lions, warthogs, and zebras. This 2-day safari from the capital of Kampala takes you through the park’s savannah and includes overnight accommodation and meals. Uganda is also a hotspot for gorilla trekking , specifically in Bwindi, Mgahinga National Park, and the Virunga Mountains.

Traveling in the opposite direction, this day trip to Jinja introduces you to Lake Victoria , the original source of the Nile River. If you cruise along the Victoria Nile, you’ll find several waterfalls, including Busowoko Falls and Itanda Falls. Entebbe is another town on the shores of Lake Victoria. It’s about 30 miles south of Kampala and has interesting attractions like botanical gardens, a wildlife education center, and Lido Beach.

In the north of Uganda, you can enjoy a river cruise in Murchison Falls National Park . Here, the Victoria Nile flows through a narrow gap, creating the Murchison Falls. It’s all a lot to take in, so it’s better to tour this country with a package. I like this 10-day excursion that gives you plenty of time for gorilla trekking and hiking, but if you’re short on time, this 3-day tour is a good alternative.

• K Hotels Entebbe (Entebbe)
• Bwindi Forest Lodge (Buhoma)
• Lemala Wildwaters Lodge (Kangulumira)

12. Zambia, one of the best countries to visit in Africa for active travelers

Zambia is one of the most beautiful parts of Africa , full of natural wonders, abundant wildlife, and gorgeous landscapes. Plus, it’s a safe country, so your trip here can be as relaxing or thrilling as you want.

Most tourists fly into Lusaka , the country’s capital, or Livingstone , a city on the southern border. If I had to choose one, I’d go with Livingstone since it’s where you can see the majestic Victoria Falls . The falls are the largest worldwide, measuring 5,600 feet across and 350 feet high. The best way to experience them is by taking a tour like this one from Livingstone or this helicopter flight over the falls.

Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River , another popular attraction where you can go whitewater rafting or take a relaxing cruise . Another option is visiting Lower Zambezi National Park to enjoy a nature walk, river cruise, or safari. While it’s not a Big 5 park, you can spot crocodiles, hippos, lions, waterbucks, and various bird species.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Victoria Falls also includes Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park , an area of forests, grassland, and woodland. To make the most of your time, I recommend this guided nature walk to see a vast array of plant and animal life.

Further inland, Kafue National Park is the largest and most biodiverse park in Zambia. Among the wildlife here are 21 species of antelope, thousands of elephants, and a hefty population of cheetahs and leopards. You can also see more unique species here, like aardvarks, bush babies, mongooses, otters, and pangolins.

To the east, South Luangwa National Park is one of the best places to visit in Africa for walking safaris . The park has large populations of buffalo, elephants, and giraffes, as well as lagoons and rivers full of crocodiles and hippos.

• Msandile River Lodge (Kakumbi)
• Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort (Livingstone)
• Twangale Park Hotel (Lusaka)

13. Tunisia, the best place to visit in Africa for history buffs

Tunisia is one of the best north African countries to visit , especially if you’re interested in history and culture. Many of its tourist attractions are concentrated in the north of the country. For example, the capital city of Tunis is a bustling metropolis where you can get lost among the traditional markets, mosques, and museums. The Medina of Tunis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a historic district with hundreds of monuments, palaces, and religious structures from the Almohad Empire.

From Tunis, you can take a day tour of the ancient city of Carthage. Founded in 814 B.C. by the Phoenicians, it’s known for its ruins, monuments, and the charming blue-and-white town of Sidi Bou Said.

If you’re up for a more extended adventure, it’s worth taking this excursion to Kairouan . This city is a center of Islamic culture, boasting the Great Mosque of Kairouan and the Aghlabid Basins, which date back to the 9th century. This day trip also includes the Amphitheatre of El Jem , built in 238 A.D. and recognized by UNESCO .

Alternatively, consider this full-day tour from Tunis to Sousse and Monastir , two neighboring cities along the Gulf of Hammamet. Sousse has a walled medina with Islamic architecture like a ribat (castle), a casbah (fortress), and souks (covered bazaars). Monastir is nice for visiting the beach, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying the nightlife.

I also recommend visiting Djerba , an island off the southern coast of Tunisia. This half-day tour covers the highlights, but if you have time, consider this overnight safari in the desert. Djerba is also a great base from which to visit Ksar Ghilane , a desert oasis on the mainland. This excursion leaves from Djerba and goes to the Ksar Ghilane hot springs and a traditional Berber village.

• The Residence Tunis (Gammarth)
• Iberostar Averroes (Hammamet)
• Iberostar Mehari Djerba (Taguermess)
• La Cigale Tabarka (Tibarka)

14. Zimbabwe, one of the best countries to visit in Africa as a family

Zimbabwe is another one of the best countries to visit in southern Africa . This small, landlocked nation offers lots to see and do, so it’s a place that the whole family will love traveling to.

First, you can’t miss a stop at Victoria Falls . Located in the westernmost corner of Zimbabwe, the falls extend into neighboring Zambia, another popular African destination . Hands down, one of the most remarkable ways to see Victoria Falls is from above. This excursion includes a helicopter flight and a walking tour, so you get the best views.

There are also some fantastic day trips and tours from Victoria Falls, such as this sunset dinner cruise and this excursion to Chobe National Park in neighboring Botswana. Of course, Zimbabwe has its own parks and natural spaces that you’ll love. Hwange National Park is just 70 miles south of Victoria Falls and is home to Zimbabwe’s most vulnerable animals.

Continuing along the border, Lake Kariba offers wildlife safaris and cruises. Further north, Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the wildest and best-preserved areas in the world, with large populations of buffalo, crocodiles, elephants, hippos, and zebras.

In addition to wildlife, Zimbabwe has a rich culture and history, which you can learn about on this tour . The excursion includes a visit to a traditional Zimbabwean village to get a glimpse of rural life, rituals, customs, and living quarters.

Finally, this country’s rock formations and ancient cave art are fascinating. I recommend visiting the balancing rocks at Matobo National Park , the medieval walls of the Great Zimbabwe National Monument , and the rugged cliffs of Gonarezhou National Park .

• Victoria Falls Safari Lodge (Victoria Falls)
• Gwango Heritage Resort (Dete)
• Holiday Inn Bulawayo (Bulawayo)

15. Malawi, another one of the best African countries to visit

Last but not least, Malawi is a small, narrow country nestled in southeast Africa. Nearly half of the country is consumed by Lake Malawi , an impressive body of water and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most of the fish species here are endemic, and the natural beauty surrounding the lake is unmatched. Here, you can admire the clear waters, green hills, and wildlife. For an eco-tourism adventure, you can even stay on Mumbo Island , a small private island on the lake.

Along the central-west coast of Lake Malawi, Nkhata Bay is a port city offering a tropical respite for tourists. About 30 miles west, Mzuzu is a melting pot of culture and recreation, particularly in Nyika National Park .

Another notable city is the capital of Lilongwe , where you can shop and go sightseeing among the religious monuments and nearby natural areas. Further south, Liwonde National Park is known as one of the best places to see wild elephants. You can also see antelope, baboons, black rhinos, cheetahs, hippos, impalas, monkeys, and nearly 400 species of birds.

There is also Majete Wildlife Reserve , a protected area where you can see the Big 5 (buffalo, elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinos), and thousands of other mammals, reptiles, and bird species. Plus, the park’s natural landscapes, such as the savannah, woodland, and forests, are lovely.

If you don’t want to burden yourself with planning an itinerary, consider this 16-day vacation package through Malawi and Zambia. It includes visits to Liwonde National Park, Lake Malawi, Lake Kariba, Victoria Falls, and more.

• Amaryllis Hotel Blantyre (Blantyre)
• Latitude 13 Degrees (Lilongwe)
• Sogecoa Golden Peacock (Lilongwe)

With that, you know the best places to visit in Africa ! I hope this guide helps you narrow down your options and plan the ultimate African vacation . Here is a map with all 15 countries I mentioned so you can get a better idea of their locations:

Also, travel advisories and unforeseen events crop up, so I recommend getting travel insurance with Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage. You may also like our guide on travel Internet , which can help you stay connected while adventuring abroad.

If you still have questions, feel free to leave a comment below. I’d be happy to help you decide where to go for your trip to Africa .

Safe travels!

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Abbas Africa

Top 20 Best Tourist Countries in Africa

As we step foot on the vast African continent, a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences awaits us.

From the majestic plains of Tanzania to the awe-inspiring pyramids of Egypt, Africa is a treasure trove of breathtaking beauty and captivating history.

But which countries make it to the top 20 list of the best tourist destinations in Africa?

Join us on this exciting journey as we uncover the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that make these countries a must-visit for every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Africa offers breathtaking landscapes and diverse natural beauty, from the Serengeti plains and Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania to the stunning coastlines and tropical paradise of Gabon and Ivory Coast.
• The continent is rich in wildlife, with opportunities for thrilling safaris and unique experiences like gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda.
• Africa’s vibrant culture and rich cultural heritage are showcased in vibrant markets like Kigali in Rwanda and Cape Town in South Africa, as well as in the unique traditions and customs found in countries like Cameroon and Ghana.
• Warm hospitality from the locals is a defining feature of many African countries, making visitors feel welcome and ensuring a memorable experience.

Below are the top 20 best tourist African countries to visit:

1. Tanzania

When it comes to exploring the diverse wonders of Africa, Tanzania is an absolute must-visit destination. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture, this East African nation offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Picture yourself standing on the vast Serengeti plains, witnessing the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration, a true natural spectacle. Or imagine scaling the heights of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, and conquering one of the world’s most iconic summits.

Tanzania is also home to the stunning Zanzibar archipelago, where pristine white sandy beaches meet crystal-clear turquoise waters. Dive into the Indian Ocean and explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life.

And don’t forget to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the local tribes, such as the Maasai, who’ll welcome you with open arms and share their traditions. Tanzania truly offers a sense of belonging, where you can connect with nature, embrace diverse cultures, and create lifelong memories.

Continuing our exploration of Africa’s top tourist countries, let’s now turn our attention to the captivating nation of Kenya. With its diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture, Kenya offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

From the iconic Maasai Mara National Reserve, where the Great Migration takes place, to the stunning white sandy beaches of the coastal region, there’s something for everyone in this remarkable country.

Explore the bustling streets of Nairobi, the capital city, and immerse yourself in the local markets and delicious street food. Embark on a safari adventure in Amboseli National Park and witness the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.

Don’t forget to visit the enchanting Lake Nakuru, home to thousands of flamingos. Kenya truly embodies the beauty and wonder of Africa, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an authentic African experience.

Uganda, nestled in the heart of East Africa, is a captivating country that offers a unique blend of wildlife, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.

With its lush green landscapes, breathtaking waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, Uganda is a paradise for nature lovers. The country is home to the famous Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you can embark on a thrilling gorilla trekking adventure.

The beautiful Murchison Falls National Park is another must-visit destination, where you can witness the powerful Nile River plunging through a narrow gorge.

In addition to its natural wonders, Uganda is also rich in cultural heritage. The vibrant capital city, Kampala, boasts a lively arts scene, bustling markets, and historical landmarks.

Whether you want to explore the wilderness or immerse yourself in local culture, Uganda has something for everyone.

As we venture further into East Africa, our exploration of captivating countries brings us to Rwanda, a land of remarkable beauty and cultural significance.

Nestled in the heart of the continent, Rwanda is a country that has overcome its tragic past and emerged as a thriving destination for tourists. Known as the ‘land of a thousand hills,’ its breathtaking landscapes include lush rainforests, stunning lakes, and majestic volcanoes.

But Rwanda offers more than just natural wonders. It’s a country rich in cultural heritage, with vibrant traditions and a strong sense of community. From the vibrant markets of Kigali to the ancient traditions of the Rwandan people, there’s a sense of belonging that permeates every aspect of life here.

Whether you’re trekking with gorillas in the Virunga Mountains or exploring the historical sites of the genocide, Rwanda is a country that will leave you feeling inspired and connected.

5. South Africa

Upon arriving in South Africa, we were immediately captivated by its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage.

From the stunning golden beaches of Cape Town to the rolling hills of the Drakensberg Mountains, this country offers a plethora of natural wonders to explore.

The bustling cities of Johannesburg and Durban pulsate with energy, offering a vibrant mix of cultures, art, and cuisine.

We immersed ourselves in the history of the nation by visiting the Apartheid Museum and Robben Island, gaining a deeper understanding of South Africa’s struggle for equality.

The country’s wildlife is also a major draw, with opportunities to spot the Big Five in Kruger National Park.

South Africa truly offers an unforgettable experience, where adventure, beauty, and culture intertwine effortlessly.

6. Zimbabwe

After immersing ourselves in the wonders of South Africa, we were eager to explore the captivating country of Zimbabwe. Known as the ‘Jewel of Africa,’ Zimbabwe offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and thrilling wildlife experiences.

Our adventure began with a visit to the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest waterfalls. The sheer power and beauty of the falls left us in awe.

We then ventured into Hwange National Park, home to a diverse array of wildlife including elephants, lions, and giraffes. The opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures up close was truly unforgettable.

As we explored the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, an ancient city that dates back to the 11th century, we were transported back in time and marveled at the architectural marvels.

Zimbabwe is a country that captures the hearts of all who visit, and we felt a sense of belonging as we immersed ourselves in its beauty and history.

Our journey through Africa led us to the captivating country of Zambia, where we were mesmerized by its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.

Zambia, known as the ‘Real Africa,’ offers a unique and authentic travel experience. From the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, to the vast plains of the South Luangwa National Park, home to a diverse range of wildlife including elephants, lions, and hippos, Zambia is a nature lover’s paradise.

The country also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with 73 ethnic groups, each with its traditions and customs. We immersed ourselves in the local culture, discovering the warm hospitality of the Zambian people.

Whether exploring the mighty Zambezi River, embarking on a safari adventure, or immersing yourself in the vibrant local markets, Zambia offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa.

Namibia, a land of stunning contrasts and natural beauty, beckons travelers with its rugged landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

As we journey through this captivating country, we’re greeted by vast deserts that seem to stretch endlessly, like the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei. The ethereal beauty of the Namib Desert is matched only by the abundance of wildlife found in Etosha National Park, where we can witness majestic elephants, lions, and rhinos in their natural habitat.

Namibia also offers a unique cultural experience, with its diverse tribes, such as the Himba and San people, who share their traditions and way of life.

Whether exploring the vibrant capital city of Windhoek or immersing ourselves in the tranquility of the Skeleton Coast, Namibia invites us to discover a sense of belonging within its awe-inspiring landscapes and warm-hearted communities.

Nestled along the pristine shores of the Gulf of Guinea, Gabon captivates visitors with its lush rainforests, breathtaking wildlife, and vibrant cultural heritage.

As we explore this enchanting destination, we’re embraced by the sheer beauty of its diverse landscapes. From the dense jungles of Lopé National Park to the stunning coastline of Loango National Park, Gabon offers a wealth of natural wonders to behold. Here, we’ve had the opportunity to witness majestic elephants, elusive gorillas, and colorful bird species in their natural habitat.

Beyond its stunning natural attractions, Gabon also boasts a rich cultural tapestry. With its blend of indigenous Bantu traditions and French influences, the country offers a unique sense of belonging and a chance to immerse ourselves in its vibrant traditions.

Gabon truly is a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to connect with nature and culture.

10. Cameroon

Located in the heart of Central Africa, Cameroon offers a captivating blend of diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and abundant wildlife. From the lush rainforests of the south to the Sahelian plains of the north, this country is a haven for nature lovers.

Cameroon is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including elephants, gorillas, and lions, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

The country’s cultural richness is equally enchanting, with over 250 ethnic groups each contributing their unique traditions and customs. Whether it’s exploring the bustling markets of Yaoundé, hiking Mount Cameroon, or immersing oneself in the rhythms of traditional music, Cameroon never fails to leave a lasting impression.

With warm and welcoming locals, this country offers a sense of belonging that will make any traveler feel right at home.

11. Ivory Coast

Continuing our exploration of Africa’s top tourist countries, let’s now turn our attention to the breathtaking Ivory Coast, where pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine await.

The Ivory Coast, as it’s commonly known, is a hidden gem nestled on the coast of West Africa. With its stunning stretch of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, the Ivory Coast offers an idyllic paradise for beach lovers. Picture yourself lounging on golden sands, the sound of crashing waves in the background, and a warm tropical breeze caressing your skin.

But the beauty of the Ivory Coast doesn’t end at its beaches. The country is also rich in cultural heritage, with vibrant markets, traditional music and dance, and a warm and welcoming population.

And let’s not forget about the mouthwatering cuisine. From the delicious acheke (attiéké) to fresh seafood dishes, the Ivory Coast offers a tantalizing culinary experience that will leave you craving for more.

12. Nigeria

When it comes to vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and a rich history, Nigeria has it all.

From the bustling city of Lagos to the ancient city of Benin, Nigeria offers a diverse range of experiences for tourists.

Immerse yourself in the colorful festivals, taste the delicious local cuisine, and explore the breathtaking natural wonders that this country has to offer.

Visit the iconic Olumo Rock in Abeokuta, where you can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.

Discover the historical significance of the Slave Trade at the Badagry Heritage Museum.

And don’t forget to explore the beautiful beaches along the Atlantic coast.

With its warm and welcoming people, Nigeria truly offers a sense of belonging that will make your trip unforgettable.

Ghana, known as the ‘gateway to West Africa,’ offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling markets of Accra to the pristine beaches of Cape Coast, Ghana has something for everyone.

Immerse yourself in the rich history by visiting the Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as a key trading post during the transatlantic slave trade.

Explore the vibrant culture through traditional music and dance performances, and indulge in the delicious local cuisine, such as jollof rice and banku.

For nature lovers, the lush rainforests of Kakum National Park and the breathtaking waterfalls of Wli aren’t to be missed.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper understanding of African culture, Ghana welcomes you with open arms.

What makes Gambia a must-visit destination in Africa?

Well, let me tell you, fellow travelers, this small West African country has a lot to offer.

The Gambia is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and abundant wildlife.

Imagine strolling along the golden sands of Kotu or enjoying a boat ride along the meandering Gambia River, surrounded by lush mangroves teeming with exotic bird species.

For those seeking a taste of local culture, a visit to the bustling Serekunda Market is a must, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, sounds, and flavors of Gambian life.

And let’s not forget about the wildlife enthusiasts among us. The Gambia is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with 621 species to spot in its national parks and reserves.

15. Senegal

Senegal, located in West Africa, offers a captivating blend of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history that will leave you in awe.

As you step foot into this enchanting country, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant rhythms of traditional Senegalese music, the scent of mouthwatering street food wafting through the air, and the warm smiles of its friendly people.

From the bustling markets of Dakar to the serene beaches of Saly, Senegal has something to offer every traveler. Explore the narrow streets of Saint-Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or embark on a safari adventure in the wilds of Niokolo-Koba National Park.

Discover the remarkable history of Gorée Island, a former slave trading post, and witness the natural beauty of the pink-hued Lake Retba. Senegal truly is a destination that will make you feel like you belong.

16. Morocco

As we delve into the enchanting country of Morocco, prepare to be captivated by its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Nestled at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, Morocco offers a unique blend of influences that make it a truly captivating destination.

From the bustling markets of Marrakech to the serene beauty of the Atlas Mountains and the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert, Morocco’s landscapes are nothing short of breathtaking. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, sounds, and flavors of Moroccan culture as you explore the ancient medinas, sample delicious traditional cuisine, and witness the timeless art of Moroccan craftsmanship.

Whether you’re wandering through the narrow streets of Fes or marveling at the architectural wonders of Casablanca, Morocco is a country that promises to leave you with lasting memories and a sense of belonging.

17. Ethiopia

Located in the horn of Africa, Ethiopia is a captivating country known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the bustling streets of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia offers an array of experiences that will leave you in awe.

The country is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Simien Mountains National Park, where you can witness breathtaking views and encounter unique wildlife such as the Ethiopian wolf. In the Danakil Depression, you can explore a surreal landscape of colorful salt flats and fiery lava lakes.

Immerse yourself in the local culture by trying traditional Ethiopian cuisines, such as injera and doro wat, and attending vibrant festivals like Timkat and Meskel. Ethiopia truly offers a sense of belonging and an opportunity to discover a world like no other.

With its iconic pyramids, ancient temples, and rich history, Egypt is a captivating destination that offers a glimpse into the wonders of the ancient world. From the majestic Sphinx and the grandeur of the Great Pyramid of Giza to the fascinating temples of Luxor and the Valley of the Kings, Egypt is a treasure trove of archaeological marvels.

The bustling streets of Cairo, with its vibrant markets and delicious street food, provide a glimpse into the vibrant culture of modern Egypt. Whether it’s exploring the ancient ruins of Karnak, cruising down the Nile River, or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, Egypt offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave you in awe.

Immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of Egypt, and discover a sense of belonging in this enchanting country.

19. Seychelles

After exploring the wonders of Egypt, we find ourselves drawn to the exquisite beauty and pristine beaches of the Seychelles. Nestled in the Indian Ocean, this archipelago of 115 islands is a paradise for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and lush tropical forests, the Seychelles offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs, hiking through the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, or simply relaxing on one of the many secluded beaches, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

The Seychelles also boast a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Africa, Europe, and Asia. From delicious Creole cuisine to vibrant festivals, the Seychelles offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.

Come and discover the magic of the Seychelles, where every moment is a postcard-perfect memory waiting to be made.

20. Mauritius

As we continue our journey through Africa, let’s now explore the enchanting island of Mauritius.

Nestled in the Indian Ocean, this tropical paradise offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.

With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush green landscapes, Mauritius is a dream destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The island is also rich in history and multicultural influences, with a diverse population that reflects its colonial past.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local markets, indulge in delicious Creole cuisine, or explore the fascinating historical sites.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, Mauritius offers something for everyone, making it a top choice for a truly unforgettable vacation in Africa.

What Defines a Top Tourist Country?

So, what exactly makes these 20 countries stand out as top tourist destinations in Africa? Is it the stunning natural landscapes, the rich cultural heritage, or the abundance of wildlife?

Actually, it’s a combination of all these factors, along with the warm hospitality of the locals and the diverse range of activities and experiences on offer.

From the iconic pyramids of Egypt to the breathtaking wildlife of Kenya’s Maasai Mara, these countries offer something unique and unforgettable for every type of traveler.

What Makes These 20 Countries Stand Out as Top Tourist Destinations in Africa?

Well, there are a few key factors that define a top tourist country in this region.

Firstly, the abundance of wildlife safaris is a major draw for travelers, with some countries offering the best opportunities to see the Big Five and other iconic animals.

Secondly, the range of activities and experiences available in these countries is unparalleled, from exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on pristine beaches.

Lastly, the cultural diversity and rich history of these nations contribute to their appeal, giving visitors a chance to immerse themselves in unique traditions and vibrant local communities.

Which of These Top 20 Tourist Countries in Africa Offer the Best Wildlife Safaris?

Tanzania and Kenya are widely recognized as the top destinations for wildlife safaris in Africa. Both countries boast famous national parks such as the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, where visitors can witness the Great Migration and spot a variety of wildlife. Uganda and Rwanda are also known for their gorilla trekking experiences. South Africa offers diverse wildlife experiences in Kruger National Park and other reserves. Zimbabwe and Zambia are renowned for Victoria Falls and their abundant wildlife. Namibia offers unique desert safaris, while Ethiopia and Egypt provide historical and cultural attractions alongside their wildlife encounters.

What Are the Best Things to Do in These Top 20 Tourist Countries in Africa?

As we explore the top 20 tourist countries in Africa, it becomes evident that what defines a top tourist country is the plethora of incredible activities and experiences it offers to visitors.

From the iconic pyramids of Egypt to the vibrant markets of Morocco, there’s something for everyone in these countries.

Enjoy thrilling safaris in Kenya, go gorilla trekking in Rwanda, or relax on the beautiful beaches of Seychelles.

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Ethiopia, explore the stunning landscapes of Namibia, or indulge in the vibrant nightlife of South Africa.

The possibilities are endless in these top tourist countries in Africa.

In conclusion, Africa is a treasure trove of incredible tourist destinations that will leave you in awe.

From the breathtaking wildlife of Tanzania and Kenya to the stunning landscapes of Uganda and Rwanda, the continent offers a diverse range of experiences.

Whether you’re exploring the ancient wonders of Egypt or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Seychelles and Mauritius, Africa has it all.

So pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the top 20 best tourist countries in Africa!

Which are the Most Popular African Countries to Visit?

Africa, the Mother Continent, entices travelers with its intriguing appeal, from towering mountains to azure beaches and diverse wildlife. Each country offers unique landscapes and cultural encounters, ensuring unforgettable experiences.  As a luxury African Safari Tour Agency , we’ve curated numerous safaris across the continent, from South Africa’s Big Five safaris to the Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania and Kenya, and gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda.  With so many adventures to choose from, it’s no wonder travelers often ask, “Where do we start?” And that’s why we are here.  Dive into our 13 most popular safari destinations to discover the wondrous possibilities in Africa.

Top Southern Africa Countries to Visit  

Southern Africa, distinct from South Africa, comprises the southernmost countries of the African continent, excluding Madagascar. With diverse landscapes and cultures, it includes Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

1) South Africa  

For many first-time safari-goers, South Africa is an ideal starting point. Kruger National Park and Sabi Sand Nature Reserve offer exclusive Big Five safaris, complemented by luxurious safari lodges. Meanwhile, Cape Town boasts world-class wine tasting, top restaurants, art, outdoor adventures, rich history, and thrilling outdoor and cultural experiences. Plus, we must add, the South African Rand to the US dollar exchange rate provides exceptional value for money.

Top Reasons to Visit South Africa 

• Exclusive Big Five Safaris 
• Exceptional leopard viewing in Sabi Sand Nature Reserve 
• Cape Town fine dining and world-class wines
• Wildlife Conservation Experiences – rhino notching  
• Malaria-free big five safari options available – perfect for families 

2) Botswana 

Voted by the Ubuntu Travel team as the top safari destination in 2024. Botswana , roughly the size of Texas, offers some of the world’s most immersive safaris thanks to its low population density and progressive government. Bordered by South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, this landlocked country is a sought-after wilderness destination. Experience abundant big game, lush vegetation, and natural beauty at its finest. Witness incredibly large elephant herds, with the Chobe River hosting up to 50,000 elephants during the dry season.

Explore the Okavango Delta , a seasonal wetland attracting diverse wildlife in search of water. Don’t miss the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve and the opportunity to visit the San people in the central Kalahari. Adventure activities abound, including quad biking and horse riding, and you can even visit habituated families of meerkats. A blog post you might be interested in, “Seven Highlights from our Botswana Trip” – written by Co-founder, Leah Green 

Top Reasons to Visit Botswana

• Expansive & remote Big Five wilderness areas
• Incredible wild dog sightings – Africa’s second rarest carnivore 
• Mokoro experience through the famous Okavango Delta
• Meerkat experience in the remote Kalahari Desert 
• Longest terrestrial zebra migration in Nxai National Park (Nov – March) 

3) Zimbabwe 

Zimbabwe, bordering South Africa, boasts some of the continent’s most expansive and wildlife-rich destinations. From the adrenaline-pumping Victoria Falls to the mega herds of elephants in Hwange National Park and the thrilling big game walking safaris in Mana Pools , Zimbabwe offers an authentic safari experience. 

With two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Victoria Falls and Mana Pools, the country is a haven for natural beauty seekers. Refreshed luxury lodges and world-class adventure and dining experiences complement the wilderness destinations, making Zimbabwe a must-visit safari holiday destination.

Top Reasons to Visit Zimbabwe 

• The majestic Victoria Falls & adrenaline capital of Africa 
• Big game walking safaris in Mana Pools 
• Hwange National Park – home to 40,000 elephants 
• Rhino conservation at Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve 
• World-renowned Zimbabwean hospitality & safari guides 
• Zambezi River sunset cruises and game viewing 

 4) Zambia 

Zambia’s safari destinations are renowned for their natural beauty and wildlife diversity. Victoria Falls, a majestic wonder on the Zambezi River, is a must-see attraction. The country’s well-known parks like South Luangwa National Park and hidden gems like Liuwa Plains National Park offer unparalleled opportunities for walking tours, making Zambia a top choice for adventurous travelers. With a surge in interest, Zambia promises unforgettable experiences for those seeking to explore Africa’s hidden wonders.

Top Reasons to Visit Zambia

• An alternative view of Victoria Falls and Devil’s Pool 
• “Valley of the Leopard” in South Luangwa National Park 
• Exclusive & remote  big game viewing without the crowds 
• Renowned wild dog viewing in National Parks 
• Game fishing and sunset cruises on the Zambezi River

5) Mozambique 

Mozambique offers the perfect blend of safari and beach experiences, a trend that’s gaining popularity. With 1,550 miles of pristine beachfront and stunning tropical islands, it’s a paradise for beach lovers. After an exhilarating safari excursion, unwinding on these beautiful shores is the ultimate relaxation. 

Mozambique’s clear turquoise waters are ideal for world-class diving, showcasing vibrant marine life and well-preserved corals. Add colonial-style architecture, Portuguese-influenced cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable vacation off the beaten path. Checkout our blog post, ‘5 must-do Benguerra Island Adventures’ 

Top Reasons to Visit Mozambique 

• Remote beachfront & island vacation – a perfect way to end a safari
• Traditional sunset dhow cruises and boating activities 
• Thriving dugong population inside marine reserves 
• Renowned PADI scuba diving and snorkeling sites
• Deep sea fishing and other marine activities 

6) Namibia 

Namibia offers a unique safari experience like no other in Africa. With its vast, sparsely populated landscapes, sweeping dunes, and rugged coastlines, Namibia embodies true adventure. Despite its seemingly isolated nature, Namibia is remarkably tourist-friendly, making it ideal for first-time African explorers.

Etosha National Park boasts one of the world’s largest and most stable populations of black rhino, while Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert showcases immense sand dunes surrounding a dry salt pan, offering a truly isolated and breathtakingly scenic safari destination.

Top Reasons to Visit Namibia 

• Desert adapted wildlife like oryx, black rhino, elephant and lion
• Sossusvlei’s red desert dunes and dark sky reserve 
• Horse riding safaris across remote arid landscapes 
• Excursions and helicopter flips over the Skeleton Coast 
• Etosha Pan’s dramatic and diverse big game viewing

Top East Africa Countries to Visit 

East Africa spans the eastern region of the African continent, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures. It encompasses countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Seychelles, each offering unique experiences, from the majestic wildlife of the Serengeti to the tranquil shores of Lake Victoria.

Sitting along the Indian Ocean, Kenya is an East African paradise renowned for its diverse wildlife, majestic mountains, lush flora, and pristine islands. With family-friendly options available, Kenya offers a variety of great safari destination through-out the year. Witness the legendary Great Wildebeest Migration , typically occurring from August to October. Explore Nairobi for unique encounters like Daphne Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage and the Giraffe Centre, then venture into the renowned Masai Mara National Reserve for thrilling year-round safaris. Concerned about crowds? Opt for private conservancies for a more exclusive experience.

Kenya, the birthplace of traditional safaris, promises unforgettable adventures. Highlights include the Lewa and Laikipia conservancies, known for horseback riding, exceptional rhino viewing, and conservation efforts. Additionally, Tsavo and Amboseli are celebrated for their populations of the last remaining great elephant tuskers.

Top Reasons to Visit Kenya  

• Seasonal Great Wildebeest Migration from August to October 
• Year-round game viewing in the Masai Mara and private conservancies 
• Hot air balloon safaris over the meandering Mara River 
• Big tusker elephants at Tsavo and Amboseli National Park 
• Horseback riding safaris at Chyulu Hills, Lewa and Laikipia region 
• Authentic cultural experience with local Maasai & Samburu

2) Tanzania 

Tanzania, celebrated for its rich biodiversity, beckons travelers to explore its vibrant savannas and stunning 800-mile coastline along the Indian Ocean. The Great Wildebeest Migration , a breathtaking display of millions of animals crossing the East African plains, is a key attraction.

Must-visit destinations include Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater , while a short flight transports you to Zanzibar , renowned for its “Spice Island” charm. Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, offers thrilling adventures. Ruaha National Park, home to 10% of the world’s wild lion population amidst a backdrop of baobab trees, is a must-see for big cat enthusiasts, adding to Tanzania’s allure as a top safari destination.

Top Reasons to Visit Tanzania 

• Seasonal Great Wildebeest Migration
• Luxury mobile-tented camps in the Serengeti 
• Ngorongoro Crater UNESCO World Heritage Site 
• Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the largest mountain in Africa. 
• The “spice island” of Zanzibar – a lush island paradise 
• Tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara National Park 

Rwanda , celebrated as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills,’ offers breathtaking mountain landscapes throughout. Its key attraction, Volcanoes National Park , is home to endangered mountain gorillas, drawing visitors from around the world. Lake Kivu and its surrounding tea and coffee plantations offer a unique ‘Crop to Cup’ experience, showcasing the journey of coffee production.

Akagera National Park , now a Big Five reserve, symbolizes inspiring conservation efforts with recent rhino introductions and increasing big cat sightings – especially in leopard hunting catfish along the banks of Lake Rwanyakazinga. Nyungwe National Park , Rwanda’s largest forest tract, is a biodiversity hotspot famous for wild chimpanzee encounters.

Top Reasons to Visit Rwanda

• Gorilla trekking in the Volcanoes National Park 
• Traditional Big Five safaris at Akagera National Park 
• Chimpanzee trekking at Nyungwe National Park
• Lake Kivu and ‘coffee to cup’ experience 
• City tour of the culturally & historically rich Kigali

Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” offers an enchanting blend of natural wonders and cultural richness. From its volcanic lakes and snow-capped mountains to its diverse wildlife, including chimpanzees and tree-climbing lions, Uganda presents a safari experience like no other. The highlight of Uganda lies in its Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, home to over 53% of the world’s mountain gorilla population.

Explore highland forests for gorillas one day and gaze upon open savannahs the next, encountering herds of buffalo and elephant. Explore Lake Victoria to spot the prehistoric-looking shoebill, or embark on an exhilarating wildlife encounter in Murchison Falls National Park. Discover the primate richness of Kibale National Park and witness the majestic tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Ishasha region. Uganda’s allure lies in its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique cultural experiences, making it a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Top Reasons to Visit Uganda 

• Gorilla trekking in the Bwindi Forest and Mgahinga National Park 
• Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park  – primate capital of Africa 
• Visit Murchison Falls – the world’s most powerful waterfall 
• Witness tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, Queen Elizabeth National Park 
• Shoebill excursions on Lake Victoria

Top Island Countries to Visit 

The Indian Ocean islands, including Mauritius, Seychelles, and Madagascar, offer idyllic escapes perfect for unwinding after a safari adventure. With pristine beaches, azure waters, and lush landscapes, each tropical island boasts its own unique charm.

1) Mauritius 

Introducing Mauritius , a volcanic island nation embraced by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Known for its stunning beaches, lagoons, and reefs, it offers the ultimate luxurious escape. Our selection of the best luxury hotels ensures a memorable stay.

For active travelers, there are plenty of activities, from yoga classes to water sports. Prefer relaxation? Enjoy private beach access and secluded spots. Explore attractions like Balaclava Ruins, Flacq Market, Ile aux Cerfs, and the Seven Coloured Earths of Chamarel, catering to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Top Reasons to Visit Mauritius 

• Luxurious resorts and lodges offering top amenities 
• Mountain biking and hiking trails in the  Black River Gorges National Park
• Experience the Seven Coloured Earths of Chamare
• Cultural attractions like Balaclava Ruins and Flacq Market
• An array of beach and marine activities in the Indian Ocean

2) Seychelles 

The Seychelles , an archipelago of 115 islands, boasts unparalleled privacy and seclusion, making it a coveted honeymoon destination in Africa. With over 100 islands to explore, including Mahe, Praslin, and private retreats, it offers five marine national parks and stunning coral reefs for diving and snorkeling.

Prohibiting motorized water sports preserves its marine biodiversity, making it ideal for underwater exploration. Explore palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, dense jungles, and iconic granite boulders across the shorelines. Don’t miss the Aldabra atoll, home to the largest raised coral reef and a thriving population of giant tortoises.

Top Reasons to Visit the Seychelles 

• Explore allée de Mai – a protected natural park and UNESCO World Heritage site
• Discover Anse Source d’Argent, a beach on the island of La Digue
• Visit some 300 giant tortoises on Curieuse & St. Pierre
• Snorkel in the Sainte Anne Marine Park
• Indulge in Seychelles city-life in the capital Victoria

3) Madagascar 

Madagascar, the world’s fourth largest island, boasts unparalleled biodiversity, with over 90% of its wildlife found nowhere else on Earth.

Just off its coast lies Miavana, once a pirate refuge now transformed into an exclusive private island resort. Accessible only by helicopter, it offers breathtaking vistas of mountains, baobabs, and azure waters. Immerse yourself in luxury accommodations and eco-conscious adventures while supporting conservation efforts. Explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter lemurs on captivating treks, making Miavana a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Top Reasons to Visit Madagascar 

• Guided lemur trekking experience 
• Helicopter excursion to Ankarana or Tsingy Rouge
• Turtle monitoring with the conservation team 
• Guided walks to discover unique fauna & flora  
• Untouched snorkeling & scuba diving locations 

The best African country to visit in 2024 is… Botswana

The Ubuntu Travel team debated this for a while. As you can imagine, it wasn’t an easy decision. But we felt the combination of remote, expansive wilderness areas with exceptional and consistent game viewing. Complimented by the variety of incredible luxury lodges, prioritizing ethical guiding, gorgeous dining, and attentive service. A safari in Botswana provides a seamless all round experience. It truly provides an authentic luxury safari experience we can’t wait to design for you in 2024! 

Plan Your Perfect Africa Trip with Ubuntu Travel

It all starts with a conversation as we work with you to customize your ideal safari, start to finish. Reach out to one of our travel designers today and we’ll help make your bucket list vacation a reality. We are available to assist in person (if geographically possible), over the phone, or through Zoom calls. If you’d prefer to correspond via email, we’re happy to do so as well!

Popular African Countries – FAQs 

How many countries are in africa.

Africa, the second largest continent after Asia, comprises 54 countries recognized by the United Nations. Remarkably, it’s home to about 15% of the world’s population and boasts between 1000 to 2000 official languages. Our curated selection focuses on prominent countries offering authentic, safe, and world-class safari experiences that align with the standards our clients appreciate and trust. We are constantly seeking out new African safari destinations to enhance our list. 

Notably, Egypt, Morocco, and Ethiopia are three African countries not featured on this list. This is because our post primarily focuses on regions renowned for wildlife safaris. However, we are capable of curating such experiences in these destinations upon request.

When is the best time to visit Africa?

Africa is a fantastic destination to visit year round – it all depends on a number of factors such as what wildlife you are most interested in seeing, the activities you’re looking to engage in (i.e. hot air ballooning, water safaris, scuba diving, etc.), as well as your ideal budget. If you are interested in seeing a specific animal or migration, we can help determine the best time of the year for you to visit. If you are interested in visiting a specific country or eco-system, we can help you plan for the optimal weather and best game viewing in that part of Africa.

How safe are African safaris?

Very safe! Safari guides and staff are highly trained to keep guests safe during their safari experiences. Understanding and recognizing animal behaviors is a key part of ranger training, teaching guides to respect the space of wild animals and providing a safe environment for both the guests and the wildlife.

Are you ready for the trip of a lifetime?

If you’re thinking of planning a trip, we’re here to help! Our team of travel designers will create an itinerary just for you to create memories to last a lifetime and conquer your bucket list. Get in touch with us today to start planning your adventure in Africa.

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24 Best Places to Visit in Africa

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on April 30, 2024

Africa is an enormous continent, and it offers countless destinations worth exploring. In a trip through Africa, you can meet the Masai Mara people in Kenya, look out onto the plains of the Serengeti or relax on a tropical island. Africa is diverse and beautiful, and there is no end to what you can see, do and explore there. As you plan your next African journey, be sure to include at least one from this list of best places to visit in Africa as your schedule will allow.

24. Ait Benhaddou (Morocco) [SEE MAP]

On the edge of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco is the incredible city of Ait Benhaddou. Also known as Mud Brick City, Ait Benhaddou is an ancient fortified stop that was a haven for travelers going between the Sahara and the city of Marrakesh. On a visit to Ait Benhaddou, you can tour the mud buildings, explore the ancient Granary at the top of the hilltop city and even tour the Mausoleum of Ben-Haddou.

23. Isalo National Park (Madagascar) [SEE MAP]

Just off the coast of Mozambique, and in the waters of the Indian Ocean, is the island of Madagascar. While the island nation has a lot to do, see and explore, a highlight is undoubtedly the Isalo National Park. Within the park, you will have access to a wide range of terrain types. Be prepared to spot enormous canyons, lush palm-tree oases and even unique sandstone formations. The best way to see Isalo National Park is on a guided trek, and many people opt for overnight camping to enhance the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

22. Zanzibar (Tanzania) [SEE MAP]

The archipelago off the coast of Tanzania is semi-autonomous, and it is a truly unique destination in Africa. Zanzibar boasts an interesting blend of architecture, and you’ll find Arabic, Middle Eastern, Moorish and Indian styles represented in its cities. There are many world-class beaches to choose from, and Zanzibar also boasts a very vibrant and well-preserved history. Be sure to spend time in the capital city of Stone Town, home to several fantastic museums and the 17th century Old Fort.

21. Djenne (Mali) [SEE MAP]

Probably the most historically and architecturally interesting city in all of Mali is Djenne. The city served as an important element of the trans-Saharan gold trade, and it is still a regional hub thanks to its impressive weekly market that gathers residents from all the surrounding areas. By far the most amazing landmark in the city, however, is the Great Mosque, which is the largest mud brick building in the world. The Islamic Mosque dates back to the 13th century, although it wasn’t officially completed until 1907.

20. Lake Malawi (Malawi, Tanzania & Mozambique) [SEE MAP]

One of the largest bodies of water in Africa is Lake Malawi. As the name suggests, much of the lake is within the borders of Malawi, but it also stretches into the countries of Tanzania and Mozambique. If you want to see Lake Malawi, one of the best ways to do so is with a visit to the Lake Malawi National Park, located on the southern end of the lake itself. There are miles of hiking available in the park, not to mention countless vantage points where you can admire the lake and take spectacular photographs.

19. Etosha National Park (Namibia) [SEE MAP]

The second largest game reserve in Namibia is the Etosha National Park . It was created around the Etosha salt pan, which many animals gravitate to. As a result, the national park is a spectacular spot for seeing wildlife. Be sure to bring along binoculars, because you’ll be able to see zebras, springbok, lions, giraffes, elephants and more. Three rest camps are designated for visitor accommodation, allowing you to see these amazing animals 24/7.

18. Lalibela (Ethiopia) [SEE MAP]

The city of Lalibela in Ethiopia is known as a city of pilgrimage. Lalibela boasts 11 monolithic, rock-cut churches, each of which is fascinating to explore. Most residents are Egyptian Orthodox Christian, and most of the churches were constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries. If you only have time for a tour of one church in Lalibela, make it Bet Giyorgis, which is shaped like a cross and carved entirely from rock in a spectacular fashion.

17. Virunga National Park (DR Congo) [SEE MAP]

Near the eastern border of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and just minutes away from Uganda, is the Virunga National Park. Virunga was founded in 1925 by the Belgian King Albert, and it was Africa’s very first national park. While poaching was a serious problem in the park in the past, now it is a growing tourism destination. The Virunga National Park is most famous for its mountain gorillas, but you can also see the Tongo chimpanzees or even trek to the summit of the Nyiragongo Volcano to see the world’s largest lava lake glowing.

16. Fish River Canyon (Namibia) [SEE MAP]

The incredible Fish River Canyon in Southern Namibia is one of the world’s largest canyons, and it is a spectacular, breathtaking scene to behold. As one of the Natural Wonders of Africa, Fish River Canyon is one of the nation’s most popular attractions. You can trek along the Fish River Canyon Trail if you’re up for adventure, or you can take a scenic overhead flight to admire the multicolored rock canyon contrasted with the bright blue water of the river.

15. Merzouga (Morocco) [SEE MAP]

While Merzouga is a small village, it is a popular destination for travelers in Morocco . Located in the Sahara Desert, Merzouga is surrounded by enormous sand dunes known as the Erg Chebbi. Much of the local population is Berber, a group that is traditionally nomadic. If you visit, you can join a camel safari into the dunes to see the traditional Berber lifestyle. In addition to checking out the nomadic desert lifestyle, you can try birdwatching in the spring, when a wide range of birds migrate through the area.

14. Praslin (Seychelles) [SEE MAP]

The second largest of the tropical islands that make up the Seychelles , located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, is Praslin. The island is dotted with a few luxury resorts, but the two main attractions on the island are Anse Lazio and the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. Anse Lazio is a gorgeous beach with clear water and amazing opportunities for snorkeling. The Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is a palm forest that is preserved and serves as the home to countless reptiles and birds, including the very rare Seychelles Black Parrot.

13. Okavango Delta (Botswana) [SEE MAP]

Where the Okavango River meets the basin of the Kalahari, you’ll find the Okavango Delta. The delta is breathtaking to behold, and the source of water means that it is almost always surrounded by wildlife. The Okavango Delta is a popular spot for safaris, and you can also enjoy some amazing scenery. A fantastic and unforgettable way to explore the Okavango Delta is with an aerial tour by airplane, allowing you to see the meandering Okavango River as well as some of the larger game animals.

12. Black River Gorges National Park (Mauritius) [SEE MAP]

Another of the incredible islands in the Indian Ocean, located just off the Eastern Coast of Africa, is Mauritius. Known for beaches and tropical weather, Mauritius is also home to the magnificent Black River Gorges National Park. The park is relatively new, founded in just 1994 to protect the natural beauty of the island. When you visit, you’ll be able to hike along gorgeous trails and see a wide range of endemic wildlife and beautiful waterfalls.

11. Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) [SEE MAP]

In the far north of Tanzania, close to the Kenyan border, is the famed Mount Kilimanjaro. The peak is the tallest in Africa, and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, making it a bucket-list destination for many travelers. While the very fit can trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, there are also other ways to explore the area. There are several shorter, easier hikes around the base of the mountain along with some gorgeous waterfalls and plenty of amazing scenery.

10. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) [SEE MAP]

If you are interested in seeing rare wildlife, then the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda should definitely be on your itinerary for an African adventure. With a permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, you can hike from the two hubs of Buhoma to Nkoringo and kayak on gorgeous lakes. The main attraction, however, is tracking gorillas. The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the best places in the world to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

9. Kruger National Park (South Africa) [SEE MAP]

The best known of the many parks located in South Africa is the Kruger National Park , named after former South African President Paul Kruger. The park has three primary goals: Conservation, education and tourism. While it is possible to purchase a permit to enter the park and then drive on your own, most visitors prefer to join a guided tour or safari. Kruger National Park’s top attractions include the Crocodile River view point, the Iron Age village known as Masorini and the abundance of the big five animals: Lion, cape buffalo, rhinoceros, African elephant and leopard.

8. Marrakech (Morocco) [SEE MAP]

After Rabat and Casablanca, Marrakech is the largest city in Morocco . It is the most popular destinations in the country, because it is such an exciting city with an ancient history and amazing architecture. The historic district of Marrakech is called the Medina, and its main square is the bustling Djemaa El-Fna, where you can watch snake charmers and acrobats while strolling through shops and snacking on local culinary delights. You can also tour souks, or outdoor markets, and then relax at a local hammam, or spa.

See also: Where to Stay in Marrakech

7. Luxor (Egypt) [SEE MAP]

The ancient city of Luxor in Egypt is divided into halves by the Nile River. On the East Bank, you’ll find the famed Luxor Temple as well as unique museums like the Luxor Museum and the Mummification Museum. Across the Nile on the West Bank, you’ll be able to explore both the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. The Valley of the Kings is one of the most iconic destinations in Africa, as it served as the burial place of many Egyptian kings.

6. Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Tanzania) [SEE MAP]

The nature preserve known as the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of Tanzania’s many attractions. The area is named after the Ngorongoro Crater, a volcanic caldera in the center of the preserve. The crater is a highlight, and so is the steep ravine called Oldupai Gorge. The conservation area is also one of the best places to visit in Africa for nature lovers, and just some of the wildlife you might spot while visiting can include the African buffalo, black rhinoceros, hippopotamus, blue wildebeest and even the occasional Tanzanian cheetah.

5. Cape Town (South Africa) [SEE MAP]

The capital city of South Africa is Cape Town , an extraordinary, historic and vibrant city named for its location on the Cape of Good Hope. To get to know the history of Cape Town, be sure to explore incredible landmarks like the colorful homes in the Bo-Kaap neighborhood as well as Robben Island, where political prisoners like Nelson Mandela were once held. One of the top natural attractions is Table Mountain, which offers breathtaking views over the Cape of Good Hope as well as the sprawling city. You can hike up Table Mountain or take a ride on the cable cars.

See also: Where to Stay in Cape Town

4. Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya) [SEE MAP]

Africa is inhabited by many different people groups, but few as are fascinating as the Masai. This group owns the Masai Mara National Reserve toward the southern part of Kenya, and every year thousands of tourists come to explore the scenery and the wildlife. In addition to seeing everything from rhinos to lions, you can visit a local village to learn more about the Masai Mara culture, cuisine, customs and dress.

3. Victoria Falls (Zambia & Zimbabwe) [SEE MAP]

Right on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe is Victoria Falls, an incredible waterfall on the Zambezi River. In Zimbabwe, the falls as well as the surrounding town is known as Victoria Falls. Across the border in Zambia, the falls are called Mosi-oa-Tunya. From December to March, the falls are more dramatic because it is also the rainy season, but the rest of the year can offer a less obscured view. In addition to admiring the views, you can enjoy Victoria Falls by canoeing or rafting near its base or having a romantic sunset cruise beneath the falls.

2. Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) [SEE MAP]

In Northeast Tanzania is the Serengeti National Park, one of Africa’s most incredible conservation areas. The name Serengeti means endless plains, and that is exactly what you’ll find within the park. More than a million wildebeest, and over 200,000 zebras, migrate through the plains each year. When you visit the Serengeti National Park, you will be able to see wildlife like cheetahs, leopards, giraffes, buffalo, gazelles and so much more. Hot air balloon trips as well as photo safaris are both incredible ways to make the most of the Serengeti.

1. Giza Necropolis (Egypt) [SEE MAP]

If you have always wanted to see the pyramids in Egypt , then make Giza your next travel destination. Giza is the gateway to Egypt’s most iconic structures, and it is very close to the city of Cairo. While in Giza, you can step inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu, now the last remaining structure of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. You can also tour the Sphinx, several smaller pyramids and a number of incredible museums helping to explain the role of these pyramids and their significance in Egyptian history.

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16 Best Places to Visit in Africa

Written by Becca Blond and Carri Wilbanks Updated Feb 10, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Becca Blond has traveled extensively through Africa, including a recent trip in June 2022, and considers Cape Town her second home.

The African continent is one of the world's most mesmerizing destinations. There are so many diverse adventures to be had on this amazing continent, home to more than 50 different countries, that it's hard to narrow them down for a best places to visit list.

Whether you are looking to explore vibrant cities like Cape Town, Cairo, and Marrakesh or hoping to see the wildlife on a safari in Kenya, South Africa, or Tanzania, there is no shortage of things to do for travelers of all types.

The African continent is also home to some stunning natural attractions, like Victoria Falls , which straddles the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia and is often described as one of the seven natural wonders of the world . And you'll find soaring mountain peaks, like Tanzania's Mount Kilimanjaro, which, at more than 19,000 feet, is Africa's highest mountain .

And then there are Africa's beaches . With thousands of miles of coastline, you'll find warm, turquoise-hued waters and white-sand beaches on mystical islands like Zanzibar off the coast of Tanzania and the Bazaruto Archipelago off the coast of Mozambique on Africa's eastern coastline.

Wherever you wander in Africa, we promise you'll leave with a new appreciation for the magic of this culturally rich, vibrantly colored, and welcoming continent that will have you wanting to return over and over.

Plan your adventures with our list of the best places to visit in Africa.

1. Explore Cape Town, South Africa

2. go back in time in zanzibar, tanzania, 3. witness the pyramids of giza, egypt, 4. experience victoria falls, zimbabwe and zambia, 5. wander the souks in marrakesh, morocco, 6. go gorilla trekking in rwanda, 7. watch the sun rise over the dunes in sossusvlei, namibia, 8. find serenity by the sea and in the sahara in tunisia, 9. summit mount kilimanjaro in tanzania, 10. go on safari in kruger national park, south africa, 11. see the great migration in masai mara, kenya, 12. descend into the ngorongoro crater on safari in tanzania, 13. take a beach vacation to the bazaruto archipelago in mozambique, 14. traverse the okavango delta in botswana, 15. discover the beauty of lake malawi, 16. watamu on kenya's swahili coast.

One of the most beloved destinations on the continent, Cape Town sits at the southern tip of South Africa, near where the Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean meet at the Cape of Good Hope . It is a culturally rich and visually stunning city that is very easy to fall in love with on a first visit.

Table Mountain rises from the center of the city, while the striking Twelve Apostle rock formations beyond provide the backdrop for gorgeous white-sand beaches, like Clifton and Camps Bay , along its Atlantic Ocean coastline.

There is so much to see and do in Cape Town . There are active adventures, like hiking to the top of Lion's Head to watch the sunrise. And, important historic places to visit, like taking a somber trip to Robben Island , where Nelson Mandela was a political prisoner for 27 years before the Apartheid regime fell.

The city is also home to a plethora of museums, galleries, local boutiques, and world-class restaurants and hotels. You'll want to spend some time exploring the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront , as well as the downtown around Long Street and Greenmarket Square .

Slightly further afield, you can see African wild penguins at Boulders Beach or learn to surf in the beach town suburb of Muizenberg .

A visit to Zanzibar feels like stepping into another world, one where time stands still, and the only city, Stone Town , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This island in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of Tanzania, is a place where Arab dhows (fishing boats) still ply the picture-perfect turquoise sea. You can get lost in the beauty of Stone Town, wandering its narrow alleys past old mosques, vibrant bazaars, and riads with intricately carved doorways.

Away from the hustle of the "city" (really it feels like a small town), the rest of the island is filled with gorgeous beaches where days are spent lazing on white sand or snorkeling and diving in the colorful coral reefs surrounding the island. These are still teeming with life and home to more than 500 marine species.

Nungwi, at the northern tip of the island, is a favorite beach destination. There are a number of hotels and guesthouses here, including The Z Hotel Zanzibar . This chic beachfront boutique hotel is set in a beautiful tropical garden, and all rooms come with floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto sea-facing balconies. The beds are draped in mosquito nets and have a romantic vibe.

Watching the sun rise or set over the Pyramids of Giza from the back of a camel is an experience you'll never forget.

The pyramids and the Great Sphinx date back to the 26th century BCE and are Egypt's most iconic attractions .

The Pyramids of Giza are easy to access from Egypt's capital and largest city, Cairo, which is equally fascinating to visit. Set on the banks of the Nile River, Cairo is a chaotic and buzzy place that appears to never slow down, even in the dead of night.

Here, ancient history meets a modern metropolis. A highlight of Cairo is a visit to the Egyptian Museum .

Book one of the higher floor rooms at the Fairmont Nile City for sweeping views of the river and the Pyramids of Giza in the distance. This luxe hotel also has a rooftop swimming pool and restaurant with more mesmerizing vistas, and a spa for post-flight pampering.

Visit Victoria Falls during the rainy seasons, when the water volume is high, and you'll understand why locals call this impressive waterfall "The Smoke That Thunders."

The sound of water rushing over rock before dropping into a pool some 300-plus-feet below sounds like the roll of thunder, and the mist that spews back up resembles thick smoke. It is an impressive sight.

Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Victoria Falls is on the mighty Zambezi River and creates the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. This waterfall is not only impressive for its dramatic drop but also for its length, which creates a 1.7-kilometer-long curtain of water as it drops.

For the best views of the falls in full, you'll want to explore the Zimbabwe side , where you can follow a walking trail to various viewpoints (expect to get drenched when the water volume is high).

On the Zambia side , you can get very close to the falls themselves and, if you're brave enough, even take a dip in Devil's Pool , which literally sits at the top of the falls before they tumble down, down, down. Both sides have lodging options, as well as restaurants.

Beautiful Marrakesh in Morocco makes for the perfect introduction to this fascinating North African country, which can actually be accessed via an overnight ferry from southern Spain.

Marrakesh is located in western Morocco and is the country's fourth-largest city and home. The walled Medina here dates back to the Berber Empire. Spend a day sightseeing, wandering its maze-like streets filled with souks (marketplaces) selling everything from spices to jewelry to brightly colored traditional clothing and slippers.

With a Moorish minaret that is part of the city skyline, Koutoubia Mosque is one of the top attractions in Marrakesh , dating back to the 12th century.

For a different perspective of this vibrant, chaotic, and very lovable city, book a hot air balloon ride for early morning. You'll watch the sun set the rooftops ablaze as you float above Marrakesh.

Trekking to see endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is on the bucket list for many animal lovers, and Rwanda's Virunga Mountains are home to more than half of the remaining wild population on the planet.

Volcanoes National Park is where the treks to see these majestic primates take place. You cannot just go on your own, but must join a guided trip that requires a permit.

Rwanda is one of Africa's smallest countries and its capital city of Kigali is heralded for being one of Africa's cleanest. It is also located just 2.5 hours from the gorilla trekking, making this emerging tourism destination easy to explore.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Rwanda

Located in southwest Africa, Namibia is a one-of-a-kind destination that is often overlooked when planning trips to the continent. It shouldn't be. The country is chock-full of adventures and landscapes you won't find anywhere else on the continent, including the Namib Desert and Sossusvlei .

Part of Namib-Naukluft National Park , Sossusvlei is a giant, flat salt pan surrounded by a sea of red and orange sand that has been sculpted into an otherworldly landscape of towering dunes and desolate valleys sprinkled with petrified dead trees. It is especially spectacular at first light, when the rising sun brings the dunes into focus and makes them glow.

Other major attractions in Namibia include the Skeleton Coast , named for the skeletons of wrecked ships that crashed along the misty Atlantic Coastline here, and Etosha National Park , one of Africa's best game reserves .

Facing towards Europe's Mediterranean coastline, Tunisia is Africa's most northerly country. It is a gorgeous, sun-soaked destination, where European and Arab influences blend together.

Home to a beautiful stretch of beaches on the Mediterranean Sea, Tunisia is a popular vacation destination for Europeans seeking some winter sun. The island Djerba is a perfect spot to indulge.

Afterwards, venture into the Sahara Desert for more mesmerizing scenery. The desert covers much of Tunisia's interior, but its most stunning section is known as the Grand Erg Oriental . Here, you'll find a rolling sea of orange sand juxtaposed against a bright blue sky. Sightsee via dune buggy, on foot, or from the back of a camel.

The town of Douz serves as the adventure hub for this area, and from here you can book the above mentioned excursions.

With an elevation of 19,341 feet, Tanzania's Mount Kilimanjaro ("Kili" for short) is Africa's highest mountain and also holds the world record for the highest single freestanding mountain (it isn't part of a range). Rising from the plains of the Serengeti, it is a dormant volcano and creates a stunning backdrop for wildlife safaris in the region.

Most people visit Kili to climb to its summit. It is especially popular because the trek involves no rock climbing expertise or mountaineering equipment.

You also won't face the extreme weather challenges of climbing other continents' highest peaks, like Mt. Everest. You will need to be in good shape and adjusted to the altitude. The trek to the top takes a minimum of six days, and you will need to go on a guided excursion.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

South Africa's Kruger National Park is one of Africa's oldest conservation areas and a top safari destination on the continent .

This vast park, which actually extends into Mozambique to the east, is home to South Africa's most diverse wildlife population. It is also surrounded by upscale private reserves, like Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which animals can cross into and out of at will.

Kruger is also a safari destination within reach for many different budgets. As a national park, visitors can actually explore Kruger on self-drive safaris and then camp or stay in national park lodges.

However, we recommend joining an organized game drive for the best shot of seeing the most animals, as you'll be in an open vehicle and with guides who know where to look for the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino).

Accommodation: Top-Rated Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Africa

Every year, millions of wildebeest and other hoofed animals like zebra and gazelles migrate between Tanzania's Serengeti and the Masai Mara in Kenya in what has become known as the Great Migration. The most dangerous part of this journey is crossing the Mara River , where many of the grazing animals get picked off by hungry lions and other predators.

The crossing usually happens between July and August, but the timing can change with the year. Watching the Great Migration in real time is a dream for many wildlife enthusiasts, who plan safaris to this part of Kenya to coincide with it.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kenya

Created about 2.5 million years ago, the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest inactive, unfilled, and unbroken volcanic caldera on the planet. Considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World (Victoria Falls is another), it is home to thousands of animals and is a top safari destination in Tanzania.

It is also on one end of the Great Migration route , mentioned above, and during this time of year, massive herds of wildebeests, zebras, and other grazing animals can be seen here.

Guests stay at lodges perched on the edge of the crater's rim and then descend down for day long wildlife drives.

All of the Big 5 African animals (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and Cape buffalo) can be seen down here, but one species you won't see on the crater floor are giraffes. This is because they find the rocky descent too difficult, and there are few trees. This lack of trees also makes it very easy to spot wildlife while on safari, including the big cats.

Off the Mozambican coastline in the Indian Ocean, the Bazaruto Archipelago Marine Park is home to a group of islands with some of the more beautiful beaches in Africa .

Bazaruto Island is the main destination and offers a range of accommodations, from budget to luxury. But there are also deserted islands and others that are home to just one hotel or two.

Besides brilliant white-sand beaches backed by coconut palms and sand dunes, these islands are also famous for their excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There is a thriving coral reef system protected by the park, and the turquoise water is warm and clear.

Botswana, in southern Africa, is another legendary safari destination.

In the northern portion of the country, the Okavango Delta is a top attraction. This large inland river delta floods during the rainy season and becomes a unique safari experience. That's when you'll get to explore the river in a dugout canoe, paddling past hippos and crocodiles while keeping your eyes peeled for elephants, giraffe, and other animals who come to the river to drink.

The Moremi Game Reserve covers a large section of the Okavango Delta and is where many upscale safari lodges are located. Maun is the gateway town to the delta, and this is a good place to organize more budget-focused canoe and land safaris.

Spanning three countries, Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania, Lake Malawi is the third-largest lake on the African continent at 29,600 square kilometers. It's part of the African Great Lake system, and its age is estimated at about one or two million years.

The majority of tourists visit the Malawi side of the lake, which is called Lake Nyasa in Tanzania and Lago Niassa in Mozambique.

One interesting fact about Lake Malawi is that it is home to more kinds of fish than any other lake on Earth ! Needless to say, fishing is very popular here.

You can also swim and snorkel in the warm, clear water, but you'll want to take a short course of a fast-acting antibiotic after doing so to protect yourself from bilharzia, which is found here.

Read More: Best Lakes in Africa

On Kenya's Swahili Coast, Watamu is the perfect town for a beach vacation. The Indian Ocean here is stunning—think turquoise, aquamarine, and emerald hues with sugar-white-sand beaches and an underwater world to explore.

Unlike beaches in South Africa, the water here stays warm enough to swim comfortably all year. And, with near-constant trade wind breezes, it never gets too oppressively hot, and it's also one of the hottest kitesurfing destinations in Africa .

The sunsets are also stellar here, especially when witnessed from the deck at Lichthaus, which has west-facing hammocks, DJs spinning in summer, and a food menu.

Watamu is a small village, and lodging is spread out over a number of miles on the coastline. It is easy to get between places by bodu bodu (a local motorbike taxi that costs around $1 per ride).

The most luxurious place to stay in town is Hemingways Watamu . Right on the beach, it offers accommodation in rooms, suites and residences. The residences are especially luxe.

They have up to two bedrooms, are done-up in gorgeous modern décor, come with full kitchens, and feature walls of windows. Beds are draped in mosquito nets so you can sleep with the windows open to hear the ocean. The food at the house restaurant is also excellent.

Another option, which is very popular with couples and groups of friends (although families are welcome as well), is Temple Point Resort . It also has a beachfront location and is spread across lushly landscaped grounds.

The public spaces here are wonderful, and there is even a room dedicated for remote working. The restaurant serves an international menu with excellent pasta dishes. Accommodation is in charming bungalows with whitewashed décor, and each has a unique look. The on-site dive center can take you swimming with whale sharks or to thriving coral reefs.

More on South Africa

Africa , South Africa , Tips & Inspo · December 2, 2020

16 Absolute Best Countries to Visit in Africa

Looking for the best countries to visit in Africa? These 16 amazing African countries offer everything—from beautiful scenery to diverse cultures to fascinating history and more! Find out where to go and what to do on this ultimate Africa Bucket List!

Africa stretches more than 30 million square kilometers, making it the second-largest continent in the world. It is full of unbelievably beautiful places packed with ancient treasures, vibrant cultures, amazing wildlife, and stunning scenery ranging from vast deserts and luscious forests to rugged mountains, sweeping plains, and pristine beaches.

With 54 unique countries to explore in the “Garden of Eden,” deciding where to go in Africa can be overwhelming. To help you sort through the many options, we’ve hand-picked these  16 Best Countries to Visit in Africa !

Ready to find out which countries should be on your African Bucket List? Read along to discover the best and safest countries to visit in Africa!

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

16 Incredible Countries that belong on your African Bucket List

This guide on the best African countries to visit will take you from the tip of the continent with its vibrant cities and abundant wildlife, through the jungle-filled forests and sprawling grasslands in the east and west, all the way to the ancient cities and vast deserts in the north. Along the way, you’ll also get a glimpse of Africa’s beautiful off-shore islands and even a few less-traveled gems.

Here’s a quick look at the countries included on this list:

Best Countries to Visit in Southern Africa: South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Mozambique

Best Countries to Visit in East Africa: Ethiopia, Kenya, Mauritius, Seychelles, Tanzania, Uganda, Zanzibar (part of Tanzania)

Best Countries to Visit in North Africa: Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia

Best Countries to Visit in West & Central Africa: Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe

Best Countries to Visit in Africa: Southern Region

South africa.

South Africa is a great country to visit in Africa. It has beautiful scenery, amazing wildlife, and many different cultures to explore. Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International is the main gateway, but you can also fly into Cape Town International . 

Despite its often eyebrow-raising political state, South Africa is a diverse country with many things to offer. From its dramatic coastline stretching more than 2,800 km to its lush interior filled with rolling grasslands and plateaus. On top of that, you’ll encounter diverse wildlife, bustling cities, charming little towns, and friendly people.

One of the best things to do in South Africa is to go on a self-drive safari in the Kruger. It is one of the biggest game reserves in the world and has more wildlife species than any other sanctuary in Africa. Once there, you’ll get to enjoy the lions’ roars and spot all kinds of wild animals mere steps from your car! Other incredible experiences include driving the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga , the world’s largest green canyon, and the Garden Route , which offers breathtaking views no matter where you turn. City lovers will find plenty of things to do in Cape Town and the nearby Cape Winelands. 

The best time to visit South Africa is during the warmer months,  November to April . Avoid visiting during the December or Easter holidays when prices are often higher. Here are a few more  things you need to know before visiting South Africa .

Contributed by Ed from SafarisAfricana.

Botswana is a truly special country if you enjoy wildlife and the great outdoors. The country is large, wild, and landlocked, with a landscape defined by the dry Kalahari Desert and the wet Okavango Delta.

The country’s main entry point is its capital, Gabarone, located in the country’s southeast. Gabarone lies on the border with South Africa, a 5-hour drive from Johannesburg.

There is a decent – but very limited – road network where only the major roads are tarmacked, and internal travel tends to be by bus, hire car, or air. International visitors arriving by plane will often stopover in Gabarone and then catch a 1.5 flight north to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta .

Botswana is one of the best African countries to visit because:

• You can explore some of the  world’s best national parks on a self-drive  Botswana safari .
• Botswana is home to huge animal migrations and one of the best places to see Southern Africa’s largest terrestrial animal migration. If you time your trip, you’ll get to see enormous zebra herds travel 1,000 kilometers between the Makgadikgadi plains and the Nxai Pan, searching for food & water.
• The Okavango Delta is a premier safari destination of 15,000 square kilometers of wetland wilderness. It’s dotted with exclusive, out-of-the-way lodges perfect for game drives, safari walks, and boat trips.

The best time to visit Botswana is  from May to August  when the winter days are cool and sunny, and the lack of water drives the wildlife to congregate around permanent water sources.  July and August  are school holiday times, meaning more tourists, busier national parks, and higher accommodation prices.  October to April  is the summer season, which brings severe heat, heavy rains, and at times, flooding.

Recommended by Paula from Paula Pins the Planet.

Namibia is a beautiful country located in Africa’s southern corners. It shares borders with South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Angola, making it easy to access overland. 

Namibia should be on your list of best African countries to visit because:

• The dramatic scenery and the diversity of the landscape is stunning. 
• Namibia is home to rich wildlife.
• You can get a taste of the local African culture.

Hosea Kutako International Airport  in Windhoek’s capital city is the major international airport and the main gateway. To get to the country’s far-flung destinations by air, transfer to the capital’s second airport – Eros. 

However, a  well-planned road trip in Namibia  is the best way to explore the country. Along the way, you will have a chance to discover some of Namibia’s beautiful landscapes, amazing wildlife, and lovely locals. 

Some of Namibia’s highlights are doing a safari at Etosha National Park , exploring the Deadsvlei desert, and climbing some of the world’s highest dunes. Visiting the ghost town Kolmaskop, relaxing by the ocean towns of Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, and driving the stunning Skeleton Coast are other must-dos. 

The best time to visit is during the  dry season (May-Oct) , when the wildlife congregates around rivers and waterholes. During this time, the weather is sunny with virtually no rain. 

Traveling in Namibia is safe, with easily navigable gravel roads, minimal traffic, and an impressively low crime rate. While there are plenty of accommodation options near the main attractions, it’s best to make reservations 6-12 months in advance when visiting during the high season. Also, make sure to book well in advance for the country’s more visited areas during the low season. 

Contributed by Claire from Stoked to Travel.

Zambia  is one of the best places to visit in Africa for adventure and stunning landscapes. The country is most famous for the Victoria Falls, a mammoth set of waterfalls straddling the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. For this reason, most visitors tend to fly into Livingstone Airport in the south. Most of Zambia’s main attractions and points of interest are also located there. 

Victoria Falls are one of the World’s Seven Wonders and is named after Queen Victoria, the former monarch when the falls were first stumbled upon by a European. Interestingly, the falls are neither the tallest nor the widest, but they hold the world’s largest single sheet waterfall record. 

The Zambian side of the falls is located in Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, and it’s easy to join a guided walking tour to the falls. Just a word of warning, a walk through the park will leave you soaked, especially in the rainy season!

Zambia is one of the best African countries to visit because:

• You can bungee jump over the falls or try white water rafting along the Zambezi River.
• If you stay at one of the posh lodges, like Avani Resort , you can see giraffes and zebra wandering around, and even drinking from the pool!
• You’ll get a chance to swim in Devil’s Pool, located atop Victoria Falls. It is the ultimate dare-devil activity! Check out this tour if you’re brave enough.

Due to safety reasons, this pool is only open during the dry season as the rainy season would be far too dangerous. Choosing when to visit is key in Zambia as different times of the year offer different experiences. The rainy season runs  from November to April , and visiting during this time means seeing the falls at the greatest capacity. When visiting during the dry season, large sections of the falls might be completely bare. But, there’ll always be some sections with fast-flowing water. 

If you’re still deciding where to go in Africa, here are 30 epic movies to spark your wanderlust!

Mozambique is another beautiful country in Africa to visit and a hot spot for beachgoers, divers, and adventure seekers. Bordered by the Indian Ocean, Mozambique boasts an incredible 2500km coastline dotted with secluded ivory-white beaches, colorful reefs, and idyllic islands. 

Mozambique is an amazing African destination because:

• Maputo , the capital city, is a haven for foodies, culture seekers, and history buffs. It’s filled with museums, forts, bustling markets, and beautiful old colonial-style buildings.
• Mozambique is home to dozens of beautiful islands, with Bazaruto and Santa Carolina among the best. 
• It’s home to some of the best coral reefs in the world.

Ponto do Oura offers some of the best surfing, fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the country and is home to the Pinnacles, a famous shark diving site. Other incredible beach destinations include Tofu, Vilanculos,   Morrungulo, and Inhambane. 

If you’re visiting South Africa, you can easily squeeze in a trip to Mozambique. The easiest way to access the country is by road from Komatipoort in Mpumalanga or Kosi Bay in KwaZulu-Natal. Mozambique is a great self-driving destination, but it’s wise to have a 4×4 vehicle. It’s also best to travel in a group or with someone knowledgeable about the area. Road conditions, especially in the north, are not the best, and stopping travelers for “traffic violations” is not uncommon. 

If driving is not an option for you, Maputo International Airport is located 3km northwest of the capital city center. Mozambique has a warm and subtropical climate. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to November . 

Best Countries to Visit in Africa: Eastern Regions

Recommended by De Wet & Jin from Museum of Wander.

Located in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia must be one of the most interesting countries worldwide. Ethiopia is the only African country that was never colonized, so if you are looking to experience undiluted African culture, Ethiopia is the place to be.

Bole Airport  in Addis Ababa is the main gateway. And, also the hub of the largest airline in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines. Domestic flights are heavily discounted if your international flight to Ethiopia is on the national carrier.

Ethiopia is also very affordable and can be visited throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for holy cities, ancient churches, colorful tribes, unique wildlife, the best cup of coffee, or world-class hiking, Ethiopia has it all!

Top Reasons to add Ethiopia to your African bucket list:

• Harar  in the eastern lowlands is Africa at its most vibrant. Harar’s walled old town is one of Islam’s holiest places, and you’ll find hundreds of mosques and shrines crammed into the narrow, colorful alleys of the ancient city. 
• Lalibela in the highlands is the center of the country’s Orthodox Christians. The 11 churches, hewn from the rock is also known as Africa’s New Jerusalem. It is one of the most spectacular sites in the world. Attending Sunday morning mass in one of these churches is something that you’ll never forget.  
• Foodies will love Ethiopia. For instance, Injera, a spongy, fermented flatbread served with fiery Berbere curries (or vegetarian sides on fasting days), looks and tastes lip-smackingly good. Here’s a great authentic food and culture tour to add to your list of things to do.

*** Travel note:  There has recently been some unrest in the northern parts of Ethiopia. Make sure to check travel advisories before visiting. 

Recommended by Disha from Disha Discovers. 

Africa is a vast continent brimming with beautiful countries, and Kenya is one of them. It is truly a country that everyone should visit at least once. You’ll find the country’s main entry point through  Jomo Kenyatta International Airport  (NBO) in Nairobi. 

Kenya is one of the best African countries to visit because:

• Kenya’s culture is diverse with several ethnic groups. Each group has its own traditions, including unique dances, food, festivals, and more. 
• If a safari is on your  bucket list , the Maasai Mara National Reserve is the place to do it. Kenya is home to all the Big Five and there are heaps of tours to join.  
• Kenya’s government has made sure that national parks and other facilities are accessible, safe, and well-maintained for tourists.

There are, however, a few key things to keep in mind before visiting Kenya. Depending on where you’re from, you’ll probably need a visa. Make sure you visit a Kenyan government website, so you know exactly what you need. Also, you’ll need to get certain immunizations before visiting Kenya. Some vaccines are required, so make sure you have this sorted.

Further, Kenyan food is delicious, but it may take a bit for your stomach to adjust. Be careful when trying street food, as this isn’t always safe to eat. While Kenya is a safe country for tourists, self-awareness is still required.

Some highlights of Kenya include watching the Great Migration in Maasai Mara, relaxing at Diani Beach, seeing the pink flamingos at Lake Nakuru, spotting birds at Lake Naivasha, having breakfast with the giraffes at Giraffe Manor, and so much more.

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Mauritius, located off East Africa’s coast in the Indian Ocean, is often thought of as a honeymoon destination. Alongside the jaw-droppingly beautiful beaches and palatial resorts, Mauritius also boasts a lesser-visited jungle interior and incredible cultural diversity in its cities and villages.

Mauritius should be on your African bucket list because:

• Mauritius has 330 kilometers of coastline, most of it pristine white-sand beaches .
• The island is a shield volcano, and the terrain of the inner island is incredibly verdant – perfect for outdoor activities , such as hiking and waterfall trekking .
• The island is incredibly diverse , blending Hindu, Muslim, Chinese, and Creole cultures.

In the capital, Port Louis, there is a range of immersive experiences that shine a light on  Mauritian culture , including lively local markets, street food tours , Sega music, and temples.

The southern part of the island is known for its natural beauty. Here you’ll find the vibrant Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark, Black River Gorges National Park, and the Heritage Nature Reserve in Bel Ombre. Hiking and quad biking are available, but it can be just as rewarding to explore by car. That way, you can stop off at the many scenic viewpoints along the coast.

Mauritius has a subtropical climate with sunny weather and warm temperatures throughout the year. It’s best to avoid visiting during the summer peak season ( October through to January ) when crowds are thickest and prices highest. Mauritius can be a very affordable destination outside of these months, provided you stay in guesthouses and eat at local restaurants. Mauritius has a very low crime rate and is widely considered one of the safest countries to visit in Africa. The main gateway is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport .

Recommended by Jurga from Full Suitcase.

Seychelles is a group of islands off the east coast of Africa. The archipelago is best known as a paradise destination for honeymooners. However, it has so much more to offer than azure-blue waters and white sand beaches. 

Seychelles is a must-visit destination in Africa because:

• There are countless dreamy white-sand beaches.
• It’s home to incredibly diverse flora and fauna.
• A chance to see the stunning landscapes and experience the local culture.

With over 100 islands, each with unique flora and fauna, Seychelles has something to offer for all kinds of travelers. From local markets in its capital city Victoria, hiking in lush jungle forests of Mahé Island , snorkeling and diving with colorful fish and water turtles to exploring the more remote islands where you’ll feel like you’ve entered a real-life Jurrasic Park. Many of these are also home to hundred-year-old, free-roaming giant tortoises! 

Some of Seychelles’ must-see places are the Mahé Island, Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve and Anse Lazio beach on Praslin Island, and Anse Source D’Argent on La Digue Island. But, every island and every beach is unique. As a result, you really have to see several different  Seychelles islands  to appreciate what Seychelles is all about! 

Seychelles is a year-round destination. But it’s best to visit between  late March to May  or from  October to November  for calmer seas and less rain.  June to August  are the driest and coolest months of the year, but also the windiest. Perfect for surfing, but not ideal for swimming or snorkeling.

Victoria-Seychelles Airport  (SEZ), on Mahé Island near the capital city of Victoria, is the main gateway. 

Recommended by Jackie & Justin from Life Of Doing.

Tanzania offers various attractions and activities for all visitors – from incredible wildlife sightseeing to magnificent beaches. But, one if the best things to do while here is going on a safari. Most visitors tend to do a safari in the Northern Circuit as it’s easier to get to from Moshi Airport. It also offers a diversity of animals to see in their natural habitats, such as lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and more. A highlight is admiring the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras at Serengeti National Park.

Tanzania is one of the best countries to visit in Africa because:

• It is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, one of the tallest mountains worldwide, standing 5,895m high.
• You can see wildlife along several safari routes, such as the Northern, Southern, or Western Circuits.  
• The tropical island of Zanzibar is a stone’s throw away.

Adventure seekers will also enjoy trekking here. Mount Kilimanjaro , one of the Seven Summits of the World, is challenging and trekking can take between 5-9 days. Hiking to Materuni Waterfall is a great day hike and is a  top attraction in the Moshi area . 

Another unique opportunity is visiting ethnic groups and learning about their culture. The Maasai group is the most popular due to its proximity to the Northern Circuit safari routes. Visitors can stay overnight at a village or visit for the day to learn about the arts and crafts, dance, and chat with residents.  

If relaxing is the main goal for your vacation, head to Zanzibar. Explore the UNESCO recognized site, Stone Town, or hang out at its white sandy beaches. 

Tanzania is a year-round destination, but experiences vary by season. The dry season is  June to October , and the wet season is  November to April . The main gateway to the country is  Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. 

Recommended by Lara from Both Feet On The Road. 

One of the best countries to visit in Africa is Uganda! The international airport at Entebbe has many direct flights to Dubai, Doha, Amsterdam, and Brussels, making it easily accessible from many parts of the world. Overland, Uganda can be reached from major tourist destinations such as Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania, either by bus or private transportation. 

Uganda should be on your African bucket list because:

• You can encounter endangered mountain gorillas.
• You’ll get to see the impressive Murchison Falls .
• You can spot unique wildlife, such as chimps, tree-climbing lions, the endangered Nubian giraffes, hippos, and many endemic birds.

However, besides these three reasons, there are many more  must-experience in Uganda . For example, the world heritage Rwenzori Mountains National Park with snowcapped peaks that are higher than the Alps. Or the beautiful islands at Lake Bunyonyi and the Toro Crate Lakes near Fort Portal. For adrenaline seekers, white water rafting at the source of the Nile in Jinja is also a must. Foodies definitely have to try the Ugandan Rolex (rolled chapati with omelet) and G-nut sauce (a kind of peanut sauce). 

Tourists are still an attraction in Uganda, so prepare yourself for being stared at, waved to, and touched (by children, not in a weird way). As a woman, prepare yourself for many wedding proposals from Ugandan men (or wear a ring if you want to avoid it). 

Ugandans are extremely friendly and love chatting with visitors, so don’t take offense to the attention you receive. If you are open and approachable, you will have an amazing time and many fun encounters with locals!

Recommended by Karen from Travel Mad Mum .

Zanzibar  is a tropical archipelago in the Indian Ocean, off the East Coast of Africa, and is one of the world’s most desirable destinations! Zanzibar is technically not an independent country but a partly self-governing state in Tanzania. Nonetheless, it still deserves its own spot on this list of best places to visit in Africa!

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport  is the only airport on the island and close to the city center. The airport has direct flights from Europe and the Middle East.

Here are the top reasons to visit the island:

• The island is home to a stunning coral reef and beautiful beaches.
• It is full of history and has a culture of its own.
• There is something for everyone; adventure, nature, history, and relaxation.

Zanzibar has many influences, and as a result, is a melting pot of customs, cultures, and traditions. To experience these first hand, you should head to the city’s old part, Stone Town . 

The tropical island is hot all year round, with two wet seasons; November to December and March until May. The cooler months run  from June to October . However, if you decide to visit in the hot, dry season  from December to February , you could cool off by snorkeling in the crystal clear waters.

Zanzibar’s population is predominately Muslim, so you may want to check if you are visiting during Ramadan. Like visiting any other country, it is best always to lock up any valuables.

Best Countries to Visit in Northern Africa 

No list of the best countries to visit in Africa would be complete without mentioning Egypt. Located in Africa’s northern corners, Egypt borders Libya, Sudan, and Isreal, with  Cairo International Airport  as its main entry point.

Egypt is a must-visit place in Africa because:

• It’s home to the Pyramids – one of the most iconic heritage sites in the world.
• You’ll find the world’s longest river, the Nile, here, which offers breathtaking scenery and great cruising opportunities . 
• The Red Sea is a world-class scuba diving destination and just the spot to explore Egypt’s rich underwater world.  

Brimming with ancient history and unbelievable scenery, Egypt is a fascinating country and definitely deserves a spot on any African bucket list. While Egypt might be one of the world’s oldest civilizations, there’s more to this country than just its captivating history. Today, Egypt is a major tourist hub offering a wide range of experiences for all kinds of travelers, from nature to history to culture to shopping and much more. 

Getting a close-up view of the Pyramids and the Great Sphinx are obligatory things to do while visiting. Both these African landmarks are simply mind-blowing and the perfect spot to learn a bit more about the Egyptian Empire. Another must-do in Eqypt is joining a cruise on the Nile. Whether it be for a sunset or something a bit longer, it will be an unforgettable experience!

If you’re into diving, be sure to check out all the cool wrecks at Sharm El Sheikh or enjoy the laidback vibes at Dahab. Of course, there are lots more to do. For instance, explore the ancient temples in Luxor, unwind at Aswan, visit the White Desert or relax in the amazing Siwa Salt Lakes. 

Egypt is a good year-round destination, but the summers can be relentless. Therefore it’s best to come during  spring (Feb-Apr)  or  autumn (Oct- Nov) . 

Recommended by James from Travel Collecting. 

Morocco is located in northern Africa, across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain. The main international gateway is  Mohammed V International Airport  near Casablanca, though there are smaller international airports in Marrakech and Fes. 

Morocco is one of the best Africa countries to visit because:  

• Shopping.  Visiting the narrow, winding, labyrinthine streets of Marrakech’s markets, Meknes and Fes is an absolute must. There are tiny shops crammed with incredible handicrafts at great prices. 
• Morocco has incredible food . A great way to enjoy it and discover new treats is to take a  food tour . Marrakech especially is a great place for a food tour. You can sample everything from sweet mint tea to a sheep’s eyeball! 
• Varied experiences to enjoy outside the major cities.

There are many incredible places to visit in Morrocco and different things to see and do. The best part? You can easily arrange for a driver to take you from one destination to another over several days, stopping off along the way. This is safe and gives you the most flexibility. However, be sure to clarify exactly what is included in advance. You can visit ancient Kasbahs and date palm plantations, drive through narrow gorges, see rose water being distilled, ride a camel through the dunes and camp overnight in the Sahara Desert, visit the coastal towns, and much more. 

The best time to visit Morocco is during  spring  and  fall  to avoid the extreme heat of summer and the snow on the Atlas Mountains in winter. Morocco is generally safe for tourists, but be careful when asking people on the street for directions as they may mislead you.

Recommended by Ucman from BrownBoyTravels.

Tunisia  is a small country located in the North African strip, sandwiched between Algeria and Libya. While Tunisia might be tiny in size, it has a lot to offer – from beautiful beaches to ancient Roman architecture.

Tunisia is a great country to visit in Africa because:

• It is not yet overrun by mass tourism like Morocco, and it is great to experience the culture in its true form.
• Tunisia is quite cheap, easy to navigate, and owing to its relatively peaceful history; a safe place to visit.
• You’ll also find the world’s second-largest standing colosseum, located in Tunisia in El Jem, here. 

If you’re into history, you will love this place! Tunisia has a multifaceted culture with Roman, Arabic and French influences. If you speak French, you will have no problem because English isn’t widely spoken here. 

Don’t miss the medina (old town) of Tunis, which is the largest in North Africa. The beautiful village of Sidi Bou Said is also nearby. It is a place of great beauty where Tunisian culture meets jaw-dropping scenery in a liberating seaside fashion. It’s best to arrange your own transport, but it’s also easy to join a day tour .

Food is generally good and cheap, and people are warm and friendly. Furthermore, the country offers great weather most of the year with plenty of sunshine.

The best way to arrive in the country is through the  Tunis-Carthage International Airport  in Tunis, the Tunisia capital.

Best Countries to Visit in Africa: Western & Central Regions

Recommended by Erika from Erika’s Travels .

If you’re looking for the perfect warm escape in January , Cape Verde is for you! Cape Verde consists of ten volcanic islands that lie off the coast of Senegal, in West Africa.

Sal’s Amical Cabral International Airport  is the largest gateway. However, since the country consists of ten separate islands, it may not be the most convenient entry point. Four islands, Santiago, São Vicente, Sal, and Boa Vista, offer international routes to Europe. 

Cape Verde should be on your African Bucket List because:

• Cape Verde is among the safest countries in Africa . There is very little crime, especially on the smaller and less urbanized islands.
• With ten volcanic islands that differ drastically in topography and tourist offerings,  Cape Verde caters to a wide variety of travel styles —whether you’re looking for ocean,  hiking trails , desert, or mountains. 
• The scenery on Santo Antão is unlike anywhere else on Earth . The spectacular island is a hiker’s paradise that features terraced mountains, colorful villages, a sculpted coastline, and verdant valleys.

Cape Verde is a country with a unique Afro-Portuguese flavor. It’s scenic diversity and cultural richness make it a fantastic African adventure destination. 

While all islands have something to offer, Santo Antão is Cape Verde’s undisputed gem. The vertical island is where soaring mountains plunge into churning water, and picturesque towns cling to terraced hillsides. For an unforgettable trip to Santo Antão, be sure to drive the island’s Old Road. Exploring the Paul Valley, and hiking the coastal route from Ponta do Sol to Cha da Igreja should also not be overlooked. 

Beyond Santo Antão, Cape Verde’s other islands are also worth exploring. São Vincente and Santiago lure culture buffs interested in the country’s Afro-Portuguese history. The islands of Sal and Boa Vista attract sun-seekers and beach-loungers.

Beyond, far-flung Fogo, Brava, and Maio boast opportunities for authentic off-the-beaten-path travel. 

Sao Tome and Principe

Recommended by Heather Cole from Conversant Traveller. 

Known as the ‘Chocolate Islands’ thanks to their colonial cocoa plantation heritage, Sao Tome and Principe’s remote islands lay in the Gulf of Guinea, off Africa’s west coast. 

Despite their offbeat location, these islands are relatively easy to reach, with regular flights to  Sao Tome International Airport  from Lisbon. Some of the  best places to stay in Sao Tome and Principe  include renovated plantation mansions that are now boutique hotels and luxurious castaway beach lodges nestled between jungle and ocean.

Sao Tome is the main island, yet it still feels like the Earth’s ends with hidden lagoons, secluded beaches, and many coffee and cocoa plantation ruins to explore. To reach the smaller island of Principe, a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, jump on a domestic flight that takes just half an hour.

Principe is wild, with vast tracts of untamed rainforest, black volcanic shores, and fishing villages where the locals are genuinely curious to meet visitors from afar. The island is so small that it’s best to base yourself in one place and take day trips to discover the world’s smallest capital city, sea turtles nesting on the beaches, and hike the many mountain trails. Most visitors like to take a boat trip along the coast, stopping in some bays for snorkeling and picnics. It’s also a bird watcher’s paradise with several endemic species, including the dwarf ibis and the Principe kingfisher. 

The islands can be visited year-round, although it does get very wet during the rainy seasons between  October and November  and  February until May .

Best Countries to Visit in Africa in Conclusion

Whether you visit Africa for its incredible nature, fascinating history, bustling cities, or diverse cultures, you’ll never be bored. We hope this guide has inspired you to explore this beautiful continent and, more importantly, helped you narrow down which African countries to visit!  

That wraps up this guide on the best African countries to visit. Have you been to any of these countries on this African Bucket List yet? Feel free to share your top tips, best places to go, things to do, and anything in between below! 

If you enjoyed this guide best countries to visit in Africa, please pin it here.

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December 2, 2020 at

This list is absolutely amazing! I LOVE Africa, and any trip I go on, my bucket list just gets longer and longer. I was supposed to be boarding to Uganda now, as one of the top bucket list destinations on the Planet. I had to cancel it, but hopefully next year I will be able to visit. This list inspires me to add other incredible destinations. Thank you!

December 3, 2020 at

Thanks for stopping by, Paula. Sorry to hear about your trip; that’s a real bummer. But hopefully, you’ll get to go real soon!

I’ve got my eyes set on either Morocco or Namibia for my next trip…but I’m not sure how I’ll ever be able to choose; both are absolutely drool-worthy!

May 13, 2021 at

This Blog is very Informative.Thanks for Sharing.

June 29, 2022 at

I love this list. There are so many places to explore in Africa. Even this list is endless for places to visit in Africa.

June 30, 2022 at

Thanks so much Magdalene!

July 7, 2022 at

This is such an amazing post. It always feels like in order to find a really cool place to travel to you have to go out of the country and this post definitely opened up my eyes! Love this post so much.

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Top 10 Destinations in Africa for a First-Time Visitor

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Richard Mullin once famously said that "the only man I envy is the man who has not yet been to Africa, for he has so much to look forward to." First-time visitors to Africa are indeed in an enviable position, with 54 countries to choose from and countless spectacular destinations ranging from game reserves to beaches, mountains, and cities bursting with color and culture. However, the prospect of picking a starting point from which to explore the world's second-largest continent can also seem like a daunting task. Here are 10 of our favorite bucket list destinations, all of which offer an unforgettable experience for first-time Africa visitors. 

Marrakesh, Morocco

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Those interested in the unique culture and history of North Africa will find plenty of both in the most famous of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities. Marrakesh was founded in 1062 by the Almoravids and in the centuries since has gathered a fabulous collection of mosques, palaces, tombs, and museums. Top historical sights include the Saadian Tombs , where members of the ruling Saadian dynasty are buried; the El Badi and El Bahia palaces; and the medieval Ali Ben Youssef Medersa. 

The best way to immerse yourself in the spirit of Marrakesh is to stroll through the original walled city, known as a medina. Here you will find a narrow maze of streets lined with stalls piled high with spices, jeweled slippers, stained glass lamps, and swathes of freshly dyed fabric. Stop in the souks for a cup of mint tea or to haggle over a purchase, or to watch artisans at work using techniques that have remained unchanged for centuries. For the most authentic stay, book a room in a traditional Moroccan riad . 

Cape Town, South Africa

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For a cultural break at the other end of the continent, head to Cape Town . Frequently voted as one of the world’s most beautiful cities, it’s flanked by the ocean on two sides and presided over by the iconic silhouette of Table Mountain . There is something for everyone in the Mother City. Art galleries, museums, and concert venues cater to the culture vultures, while the world-class restaurant scene draws inspiration from South Africa’s bountiful produce and the wines of the surrounding Cape Winelands. 

Natural beauty abounds, whether you spend your time on the white sand beaches of Camps Bay and Blouberg, or take a scenic drive along the Cape Peninsula. For many visitors, Cape Town’s historical landmarks are the main attraction. Take a ferry out to Robben Island to see the prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years, or discover the Islamic culture of the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood. For an insight into the atrocities and aftermath of the apartheid era, consider signing up for a township tour . 

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

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If you’re fascinated by natural phenomena, Victoria Falls is an obvious starting point for your first African adventure. Voted as one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, the waterfall spans the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and sees the Zambezi River plunge over a drop of 354 feet into the gorge below. Although it isn’t the world’s highest or widest waterfall, it is the largest, with over 500 million liters of water flowing over the edge every minute during peak flood season. 

The curtain of spray can be seen from 30 miles away and is the inspiration for the waterfall’s indigenous name, Mosi-oa-Tunya, or The Smoke That Thunders. If you visit from the Zimbabwean side, walking trails through Victoria Falls National Park guide you to a series of viewpoints which afford magnificent frontal views of the Main Falls. The Zambian section of the falls has fewer viewpoints but does provide the adrenalin-inducing opportunity to swim in the Devil’s Pool on the very edge of the falls. 

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

TripSavvy / Ivey Redding

Africa is a continent of superlatives, and the next one on our list is Mount Kilimanjaro . Located close to the Kenyan border in Tanzania, it is the highest peak in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world with a height of 19,341 feet. It’s also one of the few record-holding mountains that one can climb without specialist equipment or training; instead, anyone with a good level of fitness and the right approach can reasonably hope to summit Kilimanjaro. 

The first step is to pick a trusted tour operator ( Thomson Treks is one of our favorite options with a success rate of 98 percent). Next, it’s a good idea to pick a longer route with a more gradual ascent rate, since altitude sickness is the primary reason for failed summit attempts. The journey up the mountain will take you through five different climate zones, ranging from rainforest to alpine desert. At the top, a sight that might surprise first-time visitors to Africa awaits: snow and ice! 

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

TripSavvy / Felicia Martinez

Tanzania is home to another iconic African destination: the Serengeti . Located in the far north of the country, it shares unfenced borders with Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve . Together the two parks host one of nature’s most extraordinary events, the annual Great Migration of several million wildebeest, zebra, and other antelope. For the best chance of seeing the herds on the move, head to the Serengeti from December to July, making sure to check which area of the 5,700-square-mile park is currently seeing action. 

Even if you don’t catch the migration, the Serengeti is a remarkable safari destination. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its ecological importance, it boats the highest concentration of plains game in Africa. The abundance of antelope, zebra, and other ungulate species attracts large numbers of predators, making the Serengeti one of the best places on the continent to spot lions and leopards . All of the Big Five can be seen with some luck (rhinos are notoriously difficult to spot). 

Okavango Delta, Botswana

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Another destination famous for its incredible biodiversity, the Okavango Delta is a seasonal flood plain in northern Botswana. It’s fed by the Okavango River, which bursts its banks at the end of the rainy season in April or May and fans out across the Kalahari Desert, bringing life-giving water and nutrients to the otherwise arid landscape. At its annual peak, the Delta covers over 8,500 square miles and is a miraculous spread of lush green plains, forests, and marsh-like waterways.

After flying into your camp, the best way to explore is in a traditional dugout canoe. For an unforgettable insight into life in the African wilderness, opt for a few nights under canvas on one of the Delta’s uninhabited islands. In the darkness, listen out for the calls of the 160 different mammal species that call the Okavango home. Amongst these are the Big Five and one of the world’s greatest populations of endangered African wild dogs. Birders are rewarded with over 530 species, many of them regional specials.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

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Located on the border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Volcanoes National Park spans approximately 60 square miles of the Virunga Mountains. There is one main reason to visit, and that’s for the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, there are just over 1,000 mountain gorillas left in the wild. These incredible primates share more than 98 percent of our genetic code and are amongst our closest relatives. 

Volcanoes National Park is home to 10 habituated gorilla troops, meaning that they are accustomed enough to humans to allow for amazing close encounters. These encounters are strictly regulated for the gorillas’ safety; you will need to apply well in advance for a permit. To find the gorillas, you will trek on foot through the mist-laden cloud forest, a memorable experience in itself. Make sure to leave enough time to visit Karisoke Research Center, where renowned primatologist Dian Fossey conducted her life’s work. 

River Nile, Egypt

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The Nile is the longest river in Africa and, according to most authorities, the longest in the world. It runs through 11 countries on its northwards journey to the Mediterranean Sea, but by far, the most famous destination for Nile river cruises is Egypt. This is because an Egyptian river cruise allows you to see many of the country’s most iconic ancient sights along the way. Typically boats ply the stretch of river between Luxor and Aswan, just as traditional feluccas have done for millennia. 

Top stops include the ancient monuments of Luxor and Karnak, the Valley of the Kings (where the famous tomb of the boy king Tutankhamun lies), and the temples of Edfu, Philae , and Kom Ombo . The best cruises include a professional Egyptologist guide who will be able to tell you the history of each building, and the mythology that inspired its architecture. There are many different cruise ships to choose from, ranging from the affordable to the luxurious, and from classic steamships to modern liners. 

Sossusvlei, Namibia

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Africa’s best-known desert is undoubtedly the Sahara, but there are some spectacular desert landscapes to be found further south as well. In Namibia , one of the country’s greatest natural treasures is the Sossusvlei dune sea, located in the heart of the Namib Desert. Here, ocher-colored dunes soar skywards in fantastic formations created over millions of years by the force of strong winds coming ashore from the Atlantic Ocean. Some of these dunes are contenders for the title of tallest in the world. 

The dunes are a photographer’s dream, especially in the first light of dawn and in the late afternoon. Their razor-sharp spines create perfect geometric patterns and contrast beautifully against the blazing blue sky. For many visitors to Sossusvlei, the highlight is the famous dawn climb of Dune 45. You’ll ascend in the freezing semi-darkness, then reach the summit of the dune in time to watch the sun appear over the horizon and paint the surrounding landscape with hues of fiery red, rose, and gold. 

Nosy Be, Madagascar

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Known as the eighth continent on account of its incredible and unique wildlife, Madagascar is probably most famous for its lemurs. However, the island nation is also home to some of Africa’s best beaches , and the number one destination for beach lovers is Nosy Be island. Situated off Madagascar’s northwest coast, the island boasts many stretches of pure white sand to choose from, of which Andilana (on the northwest tip) is probably the most beautiful. The islets around the main island also have more than their fair share of stunning beaches. 

When (if) you tire of working on your tan, Nosy Be’s island lifestyle also offers plenty of opportunities for adventure. Snorkeling and scuba diving are both popular pastimes, especially on the pristine reefs off nearby Nosy Tanikely. From September to December every year, it is also possible to swim alongside whale sharks on a snorkeling tour with Les Baleines Rand’eau . On land, you can come face to face with some of Madagascar’s charismatic lemur species in Lokobe National Park. 

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What are the Main Tourist Attractions in Africa?

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Africa is a vast continent with the most diverse countries in the world. Filled with lush inland forests and picture-perfect beaches, Africa is a growing tourist attraction in itself. Here is the list of the best tourist attractions in Africa.

Each country has something unique to offer from tradition and culture to natural wonders the draw tourists from all over the world looking to experience their own piece of Africa. 

To choose just one reason to visit Africa and select one attraction is impossible, there are many. To help you on your journey toward your own African adventure, here are just ten of the best tourist attractions in Africa. Of course, this list is by no means comprehensive; however, these should give you plenty of food for thought.

The Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Africa

Cape town, south africa.

As far as the best tourist attractions in Africa go, Cape Town as a city and its surrounding area is very much the easiest and most accessible way to get a taste of Africa as a whole. 

Cape Town is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, a colorful mix of people, cultures, tradition, history, nature, and food, is perhaps the best way to define the Mother City.

Here a tourist can explore top tourist attractions in Cape Town South Africa , everything from Robben Island to the iconic Table Mountain National Park, Cape Point, Cape Winelands, and Camps Bay, getting a taste of fresh mountain air and ocean breezes all year round. If you play your cards right, you might be able to attend one of the best music festivals in South Africa .

Best Time to Visit: Peak Season is from November to January. Secret Seasons (best time to be a local) are October and late February to March.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, and Zambia

The falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia are something everyone has heard about, and for many, what African dreams are filled with. Victoria Falls is a jointly owned tourist attraction and can be viewed and explored from either Zambia or Zimbabwe. 

A majestic 108 meters high cascade of water, often called “The Cloud that Thunders” is not only one of the top tourist attractions in Africa but the world. Victoria Falls is a mesmerizing and awe-inspiring top ten tourist attractions in Africa that is a bucket list item for millions of people. 

Best Time to Visit: February to May

Omo River Region, Ethiopia

The Omo River region of Ethiopia is one of the most remote and secluded places in the world. Vast expanses of this picturesque African plains are extremely difficult to reach. To visit this place to explore the depths of African culture barely touched by the world in the 21st century, you will have to use a specialist tour . 

Historically, Ethiopia tends to heavily value their independence and unique culture by restricting external influence. However, it is slowly opening its doors to let the rest of the world experience its paradise. Once you visit Ethiopia, your view of Africa will be changed forever, and you will understand why it is of the main tourist attractions in East Africa.

Best time to visit: September to April – especially the very beginning of September and the end of April.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro , or just “Kili” to many in the climbing fraternity, is a major tourist attraction in Africa. For those seeking an adventure holiday, a trek to the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro is perhaps the epitome of such a vacation. 

Standing at 5,895 meters tall, it takes around 5 to 10 days to summit and returns back to the foot of the tallest mountain in Africa. The climb does not really require any specialist climbing equipment, but the right level of fitness is essential. Be warned of altitude sickness, this is a prevalent problem among those who attempt the climb.

Best times to visit: January to March, which is much colder with the potential of snow and June to October.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

When people think of Africa, they think of wild animals and safaris . The Massai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is one of the top 10 tourist attractions in Africa, and every tourist has a dramatically different experience when they visit. 

The Massai Mara is one of the top 10 tourist attractions in Africa, not just to see but experience the big 5 but because of the wildebeest migration. Continuing through the Maasai Mara National Reserve will lead you to the Serengeti National Park and Game Reserves in Tanzania.

There are many specialist tours of this impressive nature reserve and with a variety of game viewing experiences from regular overland vehicles to hot air balloons.

Best time to visit: The cold season from July to October is the best time to visit. This is peak season and can be costly.

Virunga National Park, DR Congo

African wildlife is by far the number one tourist attraction in Africa, and each African nation has different animals to see.

The Congo and nearby Uganda are famous for its mountain gorillas, and the Virunga National Park is perhaps the best place in the world where these impressive beasts can be seen. 

Established in 1925 as the very first national park in Africa, the park is also one of the top places in the world to see chimpanzees in the wild. Tourism to this beautiful region is growing and as well as seeing a wide variety of apes tourists. You can climb the slopes of the Nyiragongo Volcano and see the world’s largest pool of lava. 

Best time to visit: April, May, October and November

Okavango Delta, Botswana

One of the most breathtaking places on earth, the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO world heritage site, is one of the top tourist destinations in Africa.

This vast river delta at the foot of the massive Kalahari attracts thousands of tourists each year who want to experience the true beauty and wilds of Africa. 

Many tourists explore the wild game hotspot by air either in light aircraft or hot air balloon, and the views are beyond comprehension. The land-based safaris offering some of the best game spotting experiences anywhere in the world, and many tourists simply wish they could stay a lot longer in the fantastic place.

Best time to visit: May to September

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Just off the coast is an exotic archipelago with pristine beaches and warm oceans. This fantastic location is one of the top tourist destinations in Africa because, for some, it is the ideal place for the perfect, relaxing beach holiday. 

With a vibrant history dating back to the 17th century, the destination has a magical blend of Arabic, Middle Eastern, Moorish, and Indian cultures and styles, making it unique like no other place in Africa.

Best time to visit: June to October

Giza Necropolis, Egypt

A lot of people do not think of Egypt as being in Africa. In the Giza Necropolis, you will get to see the Great Pyramid of Giza , the Pyramid of Menkaure , and the Pyramid of Khafre .

Still, it is, and the Giza Necropolis has to be something on many travel bucket lists. The ancient Egyptian civilizations are brought back to life along the river Nile through pyramids and tombs. Not the Africa everyone immediately thinks of but certainly a part of Africa everyone should indeed visit.

Best times to visit: October to April when temperatures are cooler

Kruger National Park, South Africa

South Africa is perhaps the most accessible of all African nations. While Cape Town attracts the majority of tourists, the Kruger National Park in the North of the country is often the starting point for a superb trek down the coast toward Cape Town. 

This South African National Park is one of the top places in the world to spot all the Big 5 and top tourist attractions in South Africa. Visitors can obtain a permit to visit and take a self-drive safari. Still, the majority of visitors join an organized safari.

Best time to visit: Between April and September

Concluding the Top Tourist Attractions in Africa

Africa has so many top tourist destinations , and each country, region, and the town will have its own hidden gems. To cover everything in one place would be difficult.

Visiting Africa is becoming easier with major airlines flying into most major African cities. There is a lot to see in Africa. 

Whether you choose a grand tour starting at the bottom with South Africa and all the way up to Egypt , or if you merely cherry-pick the destinations of your choice, the continent welcomes you.

For many people, exploring Africa is a dream, and we would love to turn your vision into reality. We would love to hear your thoughts. What tourist attractions in Africa are on your bucket list, and which attractions exceeded your expectations?

FAQs for the Main Tourist Attractions in Africa

Cape Town, South Africa Victoria Falls , Zimbabwe, and Zambia Omo River Region, Ethiopia Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania The Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya Virunga National Park, DR Congo Okavango Delta, Botswana Zanzibar, Tanzania Giza Necropolis, Egypt Kruger National Park, South Africa

Africa has several top tourist destinations. However, with about 25 million annual visitors visiting Victoria and Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town, it is considered the most notable tourist destination in Africa.

Perhaps the country with the most Tourist attractions in Africa is South Africa , as this is one of the fast-developing countries in terms of tourism diversity.

This is the most impossible question to answer. From pyramids to mountain ranges, people to places, and oceans the plains of Africa. Africa means something different to everyone, but the continent is well known for the Safaris.

In recent years, Africa has opened up in terms of tourism. Tourists today are a great deal more adventurous and independent. Safaris are still very popular, as are pure sunshine and sand beach holidays. Where tourists got is ultimately up to them. However, most tourist’s first visit is either to South Africa , Kenya , Tanzania , Morocco , or Egypt .

The definition of “best” can be subjective. However, for tourists, because of the robust infrastructure, booming tourism, and ease of travel to the country, South Africa is regarded as the best country to visit in Africa.

Beauty is more than skin deep. To answer this, you need to visit and get under the surface of the country you are visiting. Africa itself is perhaps the most perfect definition of beautiful that you will ever find. However, Ethiopia , Seychelles , South Africa , and Guinea , are known to be amongst the most beautiful countries in Africa.

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How could this list dare forget the Famous Serengeti plains, the top most largest wildlife attraction in the world, with an amazing scenic value. The famous largest seasonal wildlife migration.

Hello Fadhili, that’s a great point! The Serengeti national park should be on the list. We’ll definitely include it in the next blog post update! 🙂

Love, Lydia

YOU ARE RIGHT — SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK IN TANZANIA SHOULD BE IN THE LIST ( BEST NATIONAL PARK IN AFRICA , ALSO AMONG SEVEN NATURAL WONDERS OF AFRICA)

I second that, Tino! You can see our previous comment for reference.

Thanks for the article. Visiting more Africa countries is on my bucket list. Do you have an article focusing on the best countries to visit based on different regions (e.g., West coast/East Coast)?

Hello Wayne, we do have a post on the best African countries to visit . However, it’s not ordered by region. If I were to pick one country per region, these are my recommendations:

• North Africa: Morocco
• West Africa: Ghana
• East Africa: Kenya (this is a tough choice since there’re so many great options)
• Southern Africa: South Africa (same as East Africa, many great options)

The reason I chose these countries is they have a well-developed tourism industry and cater specifically to visitors. A tip for South Africa, stick to the tourist areas, and you’ll be fine. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Dear Wayne, if you want to visit East Africa, the dream place to visit is Uganda. You will surely discover why its called the “Pearl of Africa”.

Hi! Thanks for sharing such a great post related to tourism,I also wanna know about some best things to do in Sharjah, So I request you to also post some instructive guidelines related to Tourism, as I have some great interest in such kind of things.

Thanks for visiting our site. We only cover content about Africa so Sharjah wouldn’t be a good fit. If you do have any African-related questions, please let us know.

This is ammazing.. too bad my trip was canceled earlier this year due to COVID 19

I would love to see more pictures. l am awed at the ones that l saw, my heart is beating.

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• The Most Visited Countries In Africa

Many African countries rely on tourism as a major sector of the economy. The continent has a lot to offer visitors from outstanding waterfalls to unique wildlife and the ruins of ancient civilizations. Curious individuals are rewarded on their trip to African nations with a rich history of the African culture that includes delicious food and traditional songs and dances. The majority of tourists to Africa are adventure seekers from westernized countries. This article discusses the most popular African countries among travelers. It does not, however, include Egypt as that country is considered a Middle Eastern region per the United Nation’s World Tourism Organization.

Most Visited African Countries

The most popular country with tourists to Africa is Morocco, which received 10 million visitors in 2013. Some of the biggest attractions are the Atlas mountains, giant sand dunes, and beach resorts. In addition, the country boasts 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Medina of Marrakesh, a city founded in the 1070’s AD. The city is home to palaces, a kasbah (or fortress), and the Koutoubia Mosque.

South Africa

Next on the list is South Africa with approximately 9.5 million international tourists every year. This country has several modern cities as well as national parks, beautiful coastlines, and vineyards. The majority of tourists from outside of Africa are from the UK. Since South Africa is one of the world’s megadiverse countries, a popular tourist activity here is to go on a wildlife safari to see the variety of plant and animal life. For those interested in ancient history, the Cradle of Humankind is located in Gauteng where fossils over 2 million years old have been discovered.

Number 3 in popularity is Tunisia, which hosts 6.2 million visitors annually. On the east coast of this country, tourists can lounge at luxurious resorts while enjoying the Mediterranean-like climate. Visits to the Sahara Desert and the covered markets of inland Tunisia are also popular destinations. International tourists here are largely from France, Italy, Germany, and the UK. Recent terrorist attacks have, however, resulted in a loss of visitors.

Following Tunisia in number of international tourists is Algeria where 2.7 million people decide to take their vacation every year. The country offers ancient cities and Arab-influenced architecture as well as plenty of outdoor adventures. Algiers, the capital, is a popular site and provides visitors the opportunity to get lost on historic streets and learn about the culture in museums. For those wishing to leave the hustle and bustle of city life, the Ahaggar National Park is located here and has an amazing rugged mountain range in the middle of arid, desert conditions.

Other popular countries in Africa and their number of annual international tourists include Mozambique (1.8 million), Zimbabwe (1.8 million), Kenya (1.4 million), Uganda (1.2 million), Namibia (1.1 million), and Senegal (1 million).

Future of Tourism in Africa

Tourism in Africa has the potential to be a significant economic driver for the continent, however infrastructure poses a true obstacle for advancement. Road, railway, and airport conditions are subpar and international travelers are turned off by what they consider less than average hospitality services in many areas. Western tourists are also concerned about the potential safety risks of traveling to Africa, particularly to more Arab-influenced locations where they could be potential targets for terrorist activity. Governments need to consider increasing investments in the tourism sector and marketing to a wider range of potential customers. If that happens, of course, the increase in tourism will also come with negative consequences. Increased traffic, public utilities usage (like water and electricity), and visitors to national parks all have the potential to degrade the environmental conditions that many countries have managed thus far to protect.

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These are the Most Visited Countries in Africa

As the second-largest continent on the planet, Africa has a lot to offer international travellers. While you might be guilty of thinking “safari” as soon as you read Africa, you will be pleasantly surprised to know there is much more to discover on this continent. To help you plan your trip, we’ve listed the most visited countries in Africa. We’ll explain why you should visit them, what they have to offer, and a few things you could skip, too!

The most visited countries in Africa

The most visited country in Africa is Morocco . This Northern African nation saw a whopping 12.3 million visitors in 2019, making it the most visited country on the entire continent.

So just what is it that makes Morocco so appealing? The culture of Morocco is sure to be a big drawcard, considering there is nowhere in the world quite like it. The sights, sounds and colours of the medina is enough to leave you mesmerised. Then there’s the food – oh the food! Think tagines, plenty of spice and endless sweet pastries to finish off the day.

Some of the highlights of Morocco include Marrakesh , one of the most chaotic and charismatic cities in the world. Then, of course, there is Fes , a historic city with so much culture you could spend a week here and not scratch the surface. If you’re taking a tour of the country, consider stopping by Essaouira as well. This beautiful beach town has a European feel to it, with all the rugged charm of Northern Africa.

In 2019 there were an impressive 11.3 million visitors to Egypt, making this the second most visited country in Africa. The main draw cards in Egypt are of course the Egyptian pyramids, the pharaoh’s tombs and the Luxor temple dating back thousands of years.

3. South Africa

For years I have been in love with South Africa . It was my first visit that sealed my fate! I now call South Africa home, having moved to Cape Town back in November 2019. This country comes in third on the list, but it is the front runner for safari-goers. South Africa remains the most popular choice for a safari, where you can spot the big five and spend some time out in the wilderness. As for the total visitors? There were 10.5 million visitors to South Africa in 2019!

Next up is Tunisia, with 8.3 million visitors making their way to the Northern African country in 2019. Tunisia is famous for its ancient cities, the Saharan desert and its hot desert temperatures. It has also been dubbed by some as the “next Morocco”, for being slightly less under the radar and a more affordable option just a short flight from many of Europe’s major cities.

5. Zimbabwe

There are many reasons to visit Zimbabwe, but most of them start with safari and end with the Victoria Falls. This landlocked country in Southern Africa is still one of the most popular choices for safari goers in search of the big five. The game viewing in Zimbabwe is second to none, but the Victoria Falls are unlike any other. As one of the world’s largest waterfalls, they extend some 1,708 metres in length.

6. Côte d’Ivoire

With beach resorts and rainforests as far as the eye can see, the Côte d’Ivoire (also known as the Ivory Coast) is a popular choice, especially for European travellers. With a French-colonial legacy, the country has long been a favourite for travellers in search of the sea, sun, and beautiful temperatures found in West Africa.

Uganda has been living in the shadow of Rwanda, which has quickly become the top choice for mountain gorilla viewing. But it is here in Uganda where you can have the same experience for much less, given the less-developed nature of the country. It is (perhaps to contrary belief) safe to visit Uganda and visitors will be delighted by how much raw beauty lies within the country borders.

Over in East Africa, I’m sure it will come as no surprise Kenya tops the list for the most visited country. This is where one of the most famous films on the continent, Out of Africa, was filmed. The Maasai Mara has become one of the most popular choices for safari-goers and after visiting last year, I can sure see why!

9. Mauritius

If you’re looking for a more tropical getaway when visiting Africa or perhaps a destination to tag on to your safari, look no further than Mauritius. Here you will find beautiful beaches, mountainous treks and world class diving.

10. eSwatini

Landlocked in the centre of South Africa, eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) has long existed in the shadow of South Africa. However if you’d prefer a more under the radar destination, this is it. Here you can venture out on a safari for a fraction of the cost, as well as enjoy as many camping and day hikes as you can imagine! This rounds out our list of the most visited countries in Africa. Now that you know where to go – what are you waiting for?

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Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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17 Safest Countries in Africa: Ranked by Data (Travelers Guide)

To travel as safely as possible, we created this list of the safest African countries. In this post, you’ll learn about the safest countries in Africa, according to actual data. Not opinions and tourism board marketing. We’ll also take a quick look at other interesting information for each country on the list.

Mauritius, Ghana, and Botswana are the three safest countries in Africa. This is according to the Global Peace Index. It compares three factors, which are explained in this post. Other safe African countries include Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Senegal, and Tanzania.

DISCLAIMER: The following information is not my personal opinion, nor are they from personal experience. This comes from the 2021 Global Peace Index Report from Vision of Humanity . ( Download PDF report ). Any warnings listed below for such things as crime and safety have been mainly found from travel.gc.ca . Travel warnings can also be found at travel.state.gov .

Another note for any would-be travelers, if you must travel abroad during the COVID-19 outbreak, please keep in mind that many of the cited tourist attractions may be inaccessible due to the pandemic.

Safest African Countries: Ranking System

How are these countries ranked? The lower the number, the safer the country.

According to the Global Peace Index, they use three determining factors to factor in the score they give:

• Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict: Such things as the number and duration of conflicts, how many deaths, the intensity of the conflict, and how the country fares with its neighbors impact the score.
• Societal Safety and Security: In this section, things like political instability, refugees, terrorism, violent crimes, murders, jailed populations, and internal security officers and police officers play a role in affecting the score.
• Militarisation: Military expenses, armed services personnel, importing and exporting of conventional weapons, nuclear and heavy weapons capabilities, how much is contributed to UN peacekeeping missions, and how easily accessible small arms and light weapons are all points that impact the peace score.

More detailed information can be found in Section 6 of the Global Peace Index Report.

And for comparison, see a list of other popular tourist countries at the end of the post. They are ranked by the same safety factors.

The guide is part of an ongoing series covering the safest countries in the world . Learn more about the  safest countries in Asia , South America , Central America , Latin America , and Europe .

17 Safest Countries in Africa

Here’s the list of what are considered to be the 17 safest countries in Africa, with some information as to crime and safety.

Not only that, you’ll learn of some places you can go to if you decide to travel to a particular country.

1. Mauritius

• Safety Score: 1.592
• Worldwide Rank: 28
• Population: 1.266 million (2019)
• Capital City: Port Louis
• Tourists Per Year: 1.38 million (2019)

Mauritius is considered to be the safest country in Africa. In fact, its global rank is high in the Peace Index. This makes sense then, as tourism is one of Mauritius’s biggest industries.

The country has many beautiful attractions and is considered to be a tropical paradise.

• Safety Score: 1.715
• Worldwide Rank: 38
• Population: 30.42 million (2019)
• Capital City: Accra
• Tourists Per Year: 1.13 million (2019)

Despite being considered a safe country, crime has increased in certain areas, like in Accra or other large cities.

With regards to tourism, Ghana’s tropical climate and interesting wildlife make it a destination that can be enjoyed all year round.

You can visit attractions like Paga Crocodile Pond, Elmina Castle, and Aburi Botanical Gardens.

3. Botswana

• Safety Score: 1.753
• Worldwide Rank: 41
• Population: 2.304 million (2019)
• Capital City: Gaborone
• Tourists Per Year: 1.83 million (2018)

Also considered to be a safe country by the Index, Botswana has many tourist attractions. Some of its biggest attractions are its game reserves, where safaris are available.

The Okavango Delta region is also considered a must-see when visiting, especially during the rainy season.

4. Sierra Leone

• Safety Score: 1.813
• Worldwide Rank: 46
• Population: 7.813 million (2019)
• Capital City: Freetown
• Tourists Per Year: 71,000 (2019)

Sierra Leone does have a high crime rate, despite being high on this list. For tourism, you can visit such attractions as beaches, nature reserves, mountains, and islands.

One attraction is the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, located about 40 minutes outside the capital, Freetown.

5. The Gambia

• Safety Score: 1.853
• Worldwide Rank: 53
• Population: 2.348 million (2019)
• Capital City: Banjul
• Tourists Per Year: 619,000 (2019)

Pickpocketing and purse snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas. The Gambia is the smallest country in mainland Africa by land area.

Popular areas you can visit in the country include the capital of Banjul, the town of Jufureh, and the Kachkikally crocodile pool.

The Gambia is bordered on three sides by Senegal. On the west, it has a 50 mile (80 km) coastline on the Atlantic Ocean.

• Safety Score: 1.864
• Worldwide Rank: 54
• Population: 16.3 million (2019)
• Capital City: Dakar
• Tourists Per Year: 1.38 million (2017)

The Casamance conflict in Senegal is an ongoing battle between rebel groups and the military. It is considered to be of low-level violence, as a ceasefire was declared back in 2014. Keep an eye out for that area.

As a traveler, an interesting attraction is Gorée Island, a former slave trade post, and current UNESCO World Heritage Site.

7. Tanzania

• Safety Score: 1.892
• Worldwide Rank: 58
• Population: 58.01 million (2019)
• Capital City: Dodoma
• Tourists Per Year: 1.527 million (2019)

Current warnings for Tanzania have to do with borders to other countries, such as Mozambique, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

If you go for a visit, the big draw to Tanzania is Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa .

• Safety Score: 1.909
• Worldwide Rank: 59
• Population: 18.63 million (2019)
• Capital City: Lilongwe
• Tourists Per Year: 871,000 (2019)

Malawi is relatively safe, though violent crimes can occur. The country has many things to offer to travelers, such as Mulanje Mountain, Lake Malawi, as well as national parks and game reserves (a common theme on this list).

Lake Malawi is one of the largest lakes in Africa .

Malawi is also well-known for its friendliness, being referred to as “The Warm Heart of Africa” .

9. Equatorial Guinea

• Safety Score: 1.915
• Worldwide Rank: 62
• Population: 1.356 million (2019)
• Capital City: Malabo
• Tourists Per Year: N/A

Armed robberies and muggings can occur here, especially in the cities. Despite being considered one of the least visited countries in the world, there are some places to visit.

Tourist attractions in Equatorial Guinea include the colonial quarter in the capital city of Malabo and hiking and beaches on the island of Bioko.

10. Namibia

• Safety Score: 1.927
• Worldwide Rank: 65
• Population : 2.495 million (2019)
• Capital City: Windhoek
• Tourists Per Year: 1.596 million (2019)

Since the end of the Angolan civil war, the peace enjoyed in that country has helped improve things for its neighbor, Namibia. Despite this, petty crime is still common.

That being said, tourism is a major industry, and you can visit such attractions as the Namib Desert should you go.

11. Kingdom of Eswatini or Swaziland

• Safety Score: 1.955
• Worldwide Rank: 69
• Population: 1.148 million (2019)
• Capital City: Mbabane, Lobamba
• Tourists Per Year: 1.23 million (2019)

Petty crime might be common, but it’s relatively low when compared to other nations in its region. Tourism is quite successful in Swaziland.

You can visit such attractions as Hlane Royal National Park, go shopping in Swazi Market, or soak in some culture in Lobamba (the home of Swaziland’s monarchy).

12. Madagascar

• Safety Score: 1.963
• Worldwide Rank: 70
• Population: 26.97 million (2019)
• Capital City: Antananarivo
• Tourists Per Year: 486,000 (2019)

Batterie Beach and Anosy Region have been flagged as areas to avoid. Also, crime, in general, is widespread in Madagascar. Despite this, you can enjoy some nature tourism there.

One draw to Madagascar are lemurs, which are native only to the island. One place to find lemurs is in the Ranomafana National Park.

• Safety Score: 1.964
• Worldwide Rank: 71
• Population: 17.86 million (2019)
• Capital City: Lusaka
• Tourists Per Year: 1.266 million (2019)

Zambia is rightfully close to the top of this list. That being said, there can be some petty crime that takes place.

As a tourist, you could visit the world-famous Victoria Falls, as well as the world’s longest lake, Lake Tanganyika. You can see the Zambezi River (one of the longest rivers in Africa ) in Zambia.

14. Liberia

• Safety Score: 1.998
• Worldwide Rank: 76
• Population: 4.937 million (2019)
• Capital City: Monrovia

Liberia isn’t the safest place to visit, despite being number 9 on our list. There can be some violent crimes that occur, as criminals may often be armed.

While its economy has been damaged by the country’s civil wars and the recent Ebola outbreak, there are some areas that you can visit, such as Mount Woligizi, beaches near Robertsport, and Sapo National park.

15. Morocco

• Safety Score: 2.015
• Worldwide Rank: 79
• Population: 36.91 million (2020)
• Capital City: Rabat
• Tourists Per Year: 10.3 million (2017)

This north African country is popular with tourists. Here are some tips for safe travel around Morocco, which are good for almost any country you’ll visit.

In northern Morocco, you’ll find Ceuta and Melilla – two enclaves that belong to Spain. To the west of Morocco, you’ll find the Canary Islands, that also belong to Spain.

• Safety Score: 2.017
• Worldwide Rank: 80 (Tied with Kosovo)
• Population: 32.87 million (2020)
• Capital City: Luanda
• Tourists Per Year: 218,000 (2020)
• Safety Score: 2.028
• Worldwide Rank: 83
• Population: 12.63 million
• Capital City: Kigali
• Tourists Per Year: 1.63 million (2019)

Rwanda is considered to be fairly safe, with crime being relatively low. Despite that, there is some petty theft to keep an eye out for.

When it comes to tourism, wildlife tourism is big in the country. You can visit such attractions as Volcanoes National Park, Lake Kivu, and the King’s Palace Museum.

Here are some traditional Rwandan foods to try.

Learn about the fastest animals in Africa and around the world .

Other Countries Compared

To keep these ratings all in perspective, here are a number of other popular tourist countries, by the same rating.

Here they are, for least to most safe.

• India : Ranked #135 (Score 2.553)
• United States: Ranked #122 (Score 2.337)
• Thailand: Ranked #113 (Score 2.205)
• Uganda: Ranked #114 (Score 2.219)
• Ecuador : Ranked #88 (Score 2.044)
• Cuba: Ranked #87 (Score 2.042)
• France : Ranked #55 (Score 1.868)
• Costa Rica : Ranked #39 (Score 1.725)
• Spain : Ranked #31 (Score 1.621)
• Canada: Ranked #10 (Score 1.33)

All 17 African countries in this list rank above the United States.

Africa is definitely a beautiful continent, one I’d love to explore more when possible.

Again, this list above is from the Global Peace Index.

This point bears repeating: wherever you decide to travel, please make sure you do extra research and use plenty of common sense. It doesn’t matter how safe a country may seem, you can find trouble anywhere if you’re not careful.

What are your thoughts on this list? Let us know in the comments below!

Hello, I'm Joshua Diegor . My love for travel began I was 18 when I went with some friends to New York City. All in all, I've traveled to 6 continents and 14 countries.

I'm a regular contributor to Storyteller Travel .

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Thanks for this info. I hope to travel to Africa one day.

Morocco definitely in top 5, one of the safest (and best) country in Africa (it also has problems, but much less and to a lesser extent than other states. By African standards, it is very good). Absolutely not 15!! And many countries on the list are NOT safe… High crime, instability, violence, unrest, riots,.. You must be joking.

Thanks for your comment, you make some good points.

The concept of “safety” is somewhat subjective. The factors I consider important might be quite distinct from what you feel is needed to feel safe. There is no perfect ranking system, but in this series of articles, we try to make sense of the data. The data we used was based on 23 data points. The alternative to a data-backed approach is anecdotal evidence. While this has its place, a couple of negative experiences can easily skew reality.

@Alex, have you been to morocco and where are you from because i am moroccan

I hope to visit one of all this country soon.

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Africa is a vast continent home to over a billion people and some 56 countries. It is diverse, and it is ancient. It is a place that everyone should visit if they have the chance. Plus, North Africa is extremely different from Sub-Saharan Africa and is often treated separately.

This article will only mention travel-friendly countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and not those of North Africa (like Morocco and Egypt). The list of travel-friendly nations in Africa can change over time (e.g., Ethiopia was one of the best destinations in Africa before the civil war broke out there three years ago).

10 South Africa: The Most Developed Country In Africa

South Africa stands out from much of the rest of Africa for being well-developed in many respects (development is spread unevenly). The country is the top destination in Sub-Saharan Africa and is home to some of the best national parks in Africa to visit (such as the famous Kruger National Park ).

South Africa is diverse and boasts many incredible attractions - from the quaint coastal city of Cape Town to the dramatic Garden Route.

9 Kenya: Superb National Parks & Pristine Beaches

Kenya is one of the most developed nations in East Africa and is one of the most popular destinations on the African continent. Kenya boasts reasonable infrastructure for the region and has some of the greatest national parks in the region (such as Maasai Mari - the northern extension of the Serengeti ). The Serengeti is one of the most incredible places to see African wildlife.

Related: What To Know When Visiting Kenya's Most Famous Safari Destination

8 Tanzania: The Setting Of The Lion King

Disney's The Lion King was set in the Serengeti of Tanzania. Like Kenya, Tanzania is a very welcoming nation with some of the top national parks in Africa. One of the gems of Tanzania is the autonomous island of Zanzibar. Zanzibar is a remarkable tropical beach destination with an influence from historic Arab traders.

7 Namibia: The Best Place In Africa For A Road Trip

Namibia is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world. Here, travelers explore the vast open deserts and countless hidden gems of the Kalahari Desert and the Atlantic Coast. See shipwrecks, the incredible Etosha National Park (which offers some of the most affordable safaris in Africa ), ghost towns (such as Kolmanskop ), and more.

Namibia, like South Africa, is one of the best places to rent a 4WD and explore the nation on a self-guided road trip.

Related: A Self Driving Tour Is The Best Way To See Namibia

6 Botswana: Home Of Herds Of Elephants

Botswana is one of the most stable countries in Africa and has long been a favorite for remarkable road trips. Botswana is home to an exceptionally large number of elephants, and the country takes conservation very seriously. On the downside, Botswana is also known to be one of the more expensive destinations in Africa.

5 Rwanda: The Jewel In The Heart Of Africa

Rwanda is one of the safest and most well-run countries in Africa (even if it has a traumatic past). Today, it is one of the top destinations to see the lush interior of Africa and go Mountain Gorilla trekking. Rwanda is a more expensive destination but one that is well set up for receiving international visitors.

Related: Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park: Things To Do in One of Africa’s Oldest Rainforests

4 Senegal: One Of The Most Stable Countries In West Africa

Most of the popular tourist destinations in Africa are in the East and the South of the continent. Few people bother to visit West Africa, and many of the nations of that region suffer from instability. Senegal is one of the most stable and travel-friendly countries in West Africa and offers a peek into a less-visited part of Africa.

3 Seychelles: A Tropical Island Paradise

Not all of the countries of Africa are actually on the continent. The Seychelles is a small island nation just off the coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. It is one of the world's premier tropical island resort destinations that manages to draw visitors from across the world. It is also one of the safest countries in Africa to visit.

2 Zambia: See The Largest Waterfall In The World

Zambia may not be high on many people's lists, but it is a rewarding country with a very friendly population. In the north, visitors can see the awe-inspiring Bat Migration, while in the south, on the border with Zimbabwe, visitors can see Victoria Falls - the largest waterfall in the world .

The gateway is the town of Livingstone, and it is one of the few African cities where it is possible to see zebra and even elephants wandering down the streets.

Victoria Falls is the world's largest waterfall. However, most people don't know that the Denmark Strait Cataract is the tallest waterfall in the world (and it's found deep underwater!) .

1 Eswatini (Swaziland): The Forgotten Gem Beside South Africa

South Africa is also a great base to explore other countries in Southern Africa - such as Lesotho and Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). Eswatini is a tiny country that few bother to visit. It is located just next to South Africa, and its people are extremely welcoming to foreigners. It is arguably one of the forgotten gems of Africa and definitely worth seeing when looking for less touristy places in Africa to visit.

Discover why Eswatini is one of the hidden gems in Africa that's worth visiting before planning a vacation to the African continent.

• Destinations

Top 20 Tourist Countries in Africa

When Anita Desai said, “wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow,” she must have seen and felt the essence of wherever she has been and treaded. Places we have been, paths we have crossed, and activities we have done have their way of ending up as a part of us.

As a result, if you haven’t already, tourism is certainly one of the most beautiful things you should try. Top tourist countries have a lot to offer, and locating one in Africa is not difficult.

Tourism in Africa is known for having diverse areas of interest to choose from. The diversity and range of landscapes, as well as the rich cultural legacy, are among the highlights of the top tourist countries in Africa.

Your primary objective should be the amount of time and resources put into visiting your favourite destinations and seeing and travelling to noteworthy areas. For example, tourism in Africa may be the next thing on your bucket list.

Table of Contents

Top tourist countries in Africa

Join me as I take you on a tour of Africa and show you the sites you can’t afford to miss during your trip to the breathtaking continent.

Tourism in Nigeria

Tourism in Nigeria  is one of the best in Africa. Nigeria is massive, with thousands of kilometres of land mass to explore. Nigeria is home to numerous natural wonders and animal reserves. Waterfalls, deep rainforests, savanna, and uncommon primate habitats can be found in protected locations like Cross River National Park and Yankari National Park. Zuma Rock is also one of the most well-known sights.

Read Also:  TOP 7 MOST VISITED TOURIST CENTRES IN NIGERIA

Morocco is proud of its natural beauty and authenticity. Its boundless deserts, rugged mountains, magnificent beaches, and other interesting areas have earned it the title of a Top Tourist Country. The attractions of Morocco are waiting for you at every turn. Morocco is just simply wonderful.

Liberia appears to be polishing its magnificent sights every day. Yet, it should be unthinkable to ignore its undeniable beauty. Its location, nestled among shimmering golden stretches of the Atlantic coast and wrapped in inland jungles, has earned it a reputation as one of the Top tourist countries in Africa.

4. Zimbabwe

The world-class game reserves and UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Zimbabwe remain exhilarating. Zimbabwe is one of Africa’s Top tourist countries due to its natural surroundings, unusual fauna, and ancient sites that provide a fascinating sight.

5. Mauritius

When Mark Twain said, “God created Mauritius first as an inspiration to create paradise,” he wasn’t lying. With its stunning scenery and famed friendliness. Mauritius is one of Africa’s most popular top tourist countries.

Read Also:  TOP 7 AFRICAN COUNTRIES FOR BUSINESS INVESTMENT AND EXPANSION

6. Mauritania

Mauritania is an Indian Ocean Island nation known for its beaches, lagoons, and coral reefs. However, tourism in Africa is not complete without visiting its mountainous interior, which includes Black River Gorges National Park, with rainforests, waterfalls, hiking trails and wildlife like the flying fox. 

7. Ethiopia

 Ethiopia has many stunning sights to be considered a top tourist country in Africa. The round Ethiopian Orthodox Churches on islands in Lake Tana, the Blue Nile Falls, the castles of Gondar, the Stellae of Axum, the rock-hewn churches of Tigray, the ancient temple of Yeha, and the rock-hewn churches in Lalibela are among the most well-known tourist destinations.

Read Also:  25 BEAUTIFUL AND WONDERFUL PLACES TO VISIT IN NIGERIA

 Ghana has gorgeous landscapes, rich culture and tradition, and crowded beaches. Tourism in Africa becomes more intriguing when you visit Ghana’s wildlife resort, which features both fauna and flora charms of Africa’s nature.

9. Botswana

Botswana is a popular Southern African safari destination with some of the best wildlife viewings in the world, earning it a spot among the top tourist countries. In addition, Botswana’s Chobe and Okavango Delta regions, the Kalahari Desert and its San Bushman culture are all must-see destinations.

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Gabon, as a top tourist country, earned its reputation when you find yourself in a vast and largely untouched paradise of white sand beaches, deep forests, wild rivers, and stunning landscapes

11. Tunisia

The immense desert expanse of the Sahara to the south, with its sweeping dunes, jagged mountains, and hidden, palm-tree-filled oasis, allowed Tunisia to become one of Africa’s top tourist countries.

12. Namibia

Namibia harbours in its loin arid expanse of land mass, rough land full of contrasts. It will be appreciated by those who enjoy nature, grandiose landscapes, spectacular dunes and first-class wildlife viewing.

13. South Africa

South Africa is unquestionably one of the Top tourist countries in the world. South Africa is a fantastic place to visit if you’ve never been on a safari. Its golden grassland, enormous gaping gorges, and hauntingly stunning deserts, as well as an awe-inspiring ensemble of African “Big Five”: lion, buffalo, leopard, rhinoceros, and elephant, wildlife are worth the sight. 

14. Tanzania

Safaris and wildlife-related excursions in Tanzania should be on everyone’s bucket list. Soaking up the sun, walking the magnificent beaches of Zanzibar, and exploring the natural wonders of the Pemba and Mafia islands have contributed to the country’s status as a top tourist country in Africa.

Uganda is one of Africa’s most beautiful countries. Winston Churchill may have hinted at Uganda being one of Africa’s top tourist countries when he labelled it the “pearl of Africa” because of its lush, misty woods, snow-capped mountains, sparkling lakes, and expansive savannas, and mountain gorillas.

Malawians are, without a doubt, some of the kindest people you’ll ever encounter. This further supports the country’s status as one of Africa’s top tourism countries. In addition, Malawi has a breathtaking terrain with mountains, beaches, and blue oceans.

17. The Gambia

 One of Africa’s top tourist countries, Gambia has nature reserves, attractive fishing villages, and some historic slave traffic ports to visit. In addition, the country is sure to appeal to bird enthusiasts with its diverse selection of visible bird species.

Rwanda is well-known for gorilla trekking, allowing it to maintain its position as a top tourism country in Africa while also emphasizing its commitment to wildlife protection. However, the ability to view gorillas is only the beginning of Rwanda’s attractions. Also worth seeing are the Nyungwe Forest, Ethnographic Museum, and King’s Palace Museum.

The Pyramids

 Without a stop in the Land of the Pharaohs, tourism in Africa is not complete. Egypt is home to a spectacular array of temples and tombs that awe visitors. The world-class coral reefs and the Red Sea, as well as cruising and sunbathing on the Nile River and the Siwa Oasis, might do you some good.

20. Madagascar

Because it is located off the eastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, thousands of plant and animal species unique to Madagascar are found on the island. Madagascar is known as the “eighth continent” because of its incredible natural diversity.

Checking out Africa’s scenery in person will do more justice to whatever has been stated here. Anytime and any day you choose, The continent will be waiting for you to behold it in its full stunning Glory!

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Mercy is a writer at Insight.ng. She writes SEO content, and her articles are engaging, informative, and easy to read. Her interests span Lifestyle, traveling, career and Technology.

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Top 10 tourism-ready countries in Africa

.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo{-webkit-transition:all 0.15s ease-out;transition:all 0.15s ease-out;cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:none;color:inherit;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:hover,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:focus,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-focus]{box-shadow:0 0 0 3px rgba(168,203,251,0.5);} Tiffany Misrahi

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With a projected growth of 4.9% in and accounting for nearly 9% of the continent’s GDP, Africa’s travel and tourism industry has incredible potential to help generate growth, create jobs and enable development. Which country is best positioned to benefit most from travel and tourism?

The World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2015  answers this question. It ranks countries on the basis of factors and policies that are currently in place to enable the sustainable development of the sector. The report is also a tool to help countries adapt their policies so that they can achieve their travel and tourism potential.

This year’s most competitive countries in sub-Saharan Africa are:

Looking at the results, you will see that South Africa is leading the way, ranking 48th globally and toping the African region, thanks in part to its relatively good infrastructure compared to neighbouring countries. South Africa is still reaping the benefits of the 2010 World Cup, with several sports stadiums that can host significant entertainment events. South Africa also ranked relatively high due to its efforts to reduce red tape and encourage business development in the tourism industry.

While it is clear that Africa has enormous potential with its rich natural and cultural resources, it is still for the most part in the early stages of development for travel and tourism. Its challenges are not linked to its incredible resources, but rather to broader and longstanding issues facing the continent such as infrastructure, health and hygiene and security. Even though Africa received relatively strong results on issues relating to sustainability, the continent should keep sustainability as a central element as they develop. Indeed, deforestation and the loss of habitat and wildlife could become a serious issue for Africa’s tourism industry going forward.

The majority of countries in the region realize tourism’s potential role as an economic opportunity and development catalyst, and have drafted strategic plans. But, the implementation of those plans across countries varies significantly. So what can be done? Aside from investing in its broader issues including infrastructure, hygiene and security, the African continent could focus on two elements, among others, relating specifically to travel and tourism policies.

The first is travel facilitation. In effect, most countries in the region still have significant travel restrictions, and in some cases, such as that of South Africa, there are even discussions of tightening visa policies.

Overall, Africa requires a traditional visa prior to departure from 58% of the world’s population. At the same time, it has the highest percentage of countries whose visitors are able to obtain a visa on arrival (31%). This figure varies across regions. For instance, Central African nations require 91% of the world’s population to get a traditional visa – the highest in the African sub-region. On the other hand, East Africa has the lowest requirements in the world; only 31% of the world’s population is required to have traditional visas.

Still, some recent policy changes show a will to make progress. For example, the 15 members of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have introduced a visa policy that enables free movement of people across member states. Such moves to facilitate travel itineraries that take in more than one country will prove an attraction to international tourists.

International cooperation will also be critical in transforming intra-African connectivity. If you have ever traveled in Africa you’ll know that getting around the continent can be a challenge, often requiring connecting flights from Europe or the Middle East.

Although many air markets between Africa and countries outside the continent have been liberalized, the majority of intra-African aviation remains largely closed, due to restrictive bilateral agreements. A recent report from IATA highlights the benefits of enhancing air connectivity in Africa, noting for instance that a liberalization agreement between South Africa and Kenya in the early 2000s led to a 69% rise in passenger traffic. Similarly, Ethiopia’s numerous bilateral agreements have supported Ethiopian Airlines in becoming one of the largest and most profitable airlines in South Africa.

By building on their competitive advantages and tackling their challenges head on, African nations will hopefully be able to achieve their full travel and tourism potential.

The World Economic Forum on Africa 2015 takes place in Cape Town, South Africa from 3-5 June. 

Author: Tiffany Misrahi, Community Manager, Travel & Tourism Industries, World Economic Forum

Image: Sun City is nestled in the hills of the Bafokeng nation, 120 km (81 miles) north of Johannesburg. REUTERS/Thomas White

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Top 10 tourist destinations in Africa in 2024

According to the Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024, South Africa is the top tourist destination in Africa. The TTDI 2024 measures the factors enabling sustainable growth in the T&T sector.

• South Africa is the top tourist destination in Africa according to the TTDI 2024
• The top 10 tourist destinations in Africa are led by South Africa, with Mauritius and Botswana in second and third place
• The global T&T sector is expected to return to pre-pandemic levels by 2024

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The latest ranking shows that South Africa ranks highest in Africa, followed by Mauritius and Ghana. Sub-Saharan Africa has seen significant improvement, with the T&T sector boosting job creation and economic development.

The global Travel & Tourism (T&T) sector is expected to return to pre-pandemic levels by 2024, driven by the end of restrictions and strong demand. However, challenges such as uneven regional recovery, labor shortages, and supply-demand imbalances persist. External factors like global inflation, conflicts, and environmental issues add further pressure.

READ ALSO: Top 10 most expensive African cities to live in 2024

The report noted that the scores for sub-Saharan Africa Sub-Saharan Africa (Africa) has shown the most substantial enhancement in TTDI performance since 2019 (+2.1%), with 16 out of the 19 regional economies covered by the index increasing their TTDI scores.

In 2024, Africa had the highest score for T&T Socioeconomic Impact, with the T&T industry in Africa generating, on average, over 21% more jobs for each direct position than the TTDI mean, and with an average of over 43% of the sector workforce employed in segments that are considered relatively high wage.

The top 10 tourist destinations in Africa are led by South Africa, with Mauritius and Botswana in second and third place, respectively. Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Namibia, Zambia, Ghana, and Senegal complete the top ten list.

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Figures have been rounded. Data for most countries are for overnight visitors (tourists). The figures have been taken from several publications. The data shows the countries with the largest number of international arrivals in the leading countries on the continent in 2022.

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• Share of domestic and international tourist spending Egypt 2019 and 2022, by origin
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• Inbound tourism expenditure over exports of goods in Egypt 2008-2021
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Tourism expenditure

• Premium Statistic Inbound tourism expenditure over exports of goods in Egypt 2008-2021
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Hotel sector

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Limited Airlift a Roadblock To Growing Tourism in Many African Countries

Namibian hospitality officials see demand promise if barriers to entry are lifted.

By Terence Baker Hotel News Now

WINDHOEK, Namibia — Some African countries have big plans to promote their destinations and draw more tourists and investors, but a major sticking point is how long it takes to fly to those destinations.

Airline connectivity, or airlift, is one of the biggest hindrances to increasing annual visitor numbers to countries such as Namibia. But local hoteliers and tourism officials are working to promote the country's natural wonders and beauty to drive that wanderlust that makes airlines notice.

Bornventure Mbidzo, acting CEO of the Namibia Tourism Board, said people must come to Namibia as a tourist and fall in love with the southwest African nation before they're willing to do business there.

“Only then will they say, ‘OK, I will invest in Namibia, not in South Africa,’” he said during a panel on the first day of the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum hosted in Namibia's capital Windhoek.

Mbidzo added Namibia's financial policy allows for the repatriation of profits and the country has a favorable tax regime for international firms.

Ram Lokan, principal of investment at South Africa-based Kasada Capital Management, said as a private investor, his top criteria is a market’s macroeconomic environment. Growing that infrastructure is paramount to investors' decisions to develop hotels and inject capital.

“We ask, is the country open to business?” he said.

Lokan pointed to Namibia's transparency and growth potential as a market, but it's still difficult to make investments pan out in developing markets.

“We have to push to get that conversation out there as the country does not dominate the region,” he said.

Kasada owns the dual-brand Mercure Windhoek and Mövenpick Windhoek, which opened earlier this year.

But on a personal note, Lokan's connection to Namibia began before Kasada's expansion to the country.

“I came on my honeymoon here before I invested,” he said.

For now, flying to Namibia is a major undertaking, said Peter Greenberg, travel editor of CBS News, who moderated the panel. Limited airlift is not a unique problem throughout a majority of African nations, though there are ways to improve the travel experience.

Namibia does not require visitors to have a visa when arriving from many countries, and this is something that other African countries have promoted, Greenberg said.

“Kenya has opened up visa-free travel, and it is a critical point. The U.S. is a market that is concentrated on, but the airlift from there is long, and the time difference is notable. From most of Europe, the flight, too, is long, but there is no jet lag,” Greenberg said. “These points allow us to grow the pie, but there are a lot of countries fighting for the same slices. The winner will be the countries that fix their airlift. We see Namibia at the forefront, but, yes, there is more it can do.”

Some African markets that have seen spurts of travel demand over the years have already lost some airlift, Greenberg said.

“The Cape Verde Islands is a ghost town, as South African Airlines does not stop there now to refuel. Rwanda [has added flights], and they priced themselves high. The question is, how high can you price yourself before you put yourself out of business?” he said.

Peter-Hain Kazapua, founding CEO of Uakii Wilderness Safaris, said there is always a market for authenticity in tourism. He added any market that manages to obtain that authenticity then has pricing power.

But what's missing in many parts of Africa is an investment in proper lodges, Kazapua said. The travelers that do reach Namibia and other remote African countries are typically older but still adventurous. In other words, they want to see Africa’s scenery and wildlife but require a higher level of comfort.

Add in the fact that the average length of stay in Namibia is 22 days, which not every traveler can afford to schedule. But there's plenty of opportunity for the local hotel and tourism industry to flourish with travelers staying for extended periods.

Mbidzo said Namibia and investors need to align hospitality investments based on target audiences’ requirements with community investment.

Windhoek has seen a notable increase in population over the last decade, but it is not the principal tourism destination by far, although it is the entry point.

Investors in emerging markets such as Windhoek also want diverse demand drivers, Lokan said. For instance, there's plenty of work needed to build the city's status as a place to host meetings, incentives, conventions and expositions, and to woo business travelers.

“Occupancy here is in the high 40%, compared with Europe in the 80%,” he said.

Gitta Paetzold, CEO of the Hospitality Association of Namibia, said work is being done to better market Namibia and sell its story.

Paetzold said Namibian officials talk of “conscious and conservancy tourism,” which Mbidzo agreed is crucial.

“If you understand the process, you value the product,” Mbidzo said.

“We do see ourselves as an elite product as we price ourselves higher than South Africa, but we need to have value for money,” Paetzold added.

Mbidzo said that investment in the north of the country, which features Etosha National Park — the country’s premier wildlife destination — has not attracted a significant level of visitors. Northern Namibia also has the highest concentration of Namibians.

Read more news on Hotel News Now.

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Orlando Cepeda dies

US tourist killed in Zambia elephant attack, the second this year

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JOHANNESBURG (AP) — A U.S. tourist was killed by an elephant in the Zambian city of Livingstone Wednesday — in the second such attack in the country this year — local officials said.

The officials said Friday that 64-year-old Juliana Gle Tourneau was killed when an elephant that was part of a herd the tourists were watching attacked their vehicle, threw Tourneau out and trampled her.

She was part of a group that had stopped near the Maramba Cultural Bridge due to the traffic caused by the elephant herd near the bridge, they added.

“Juliana Gle Tourneau, 64, of New Mexico, United States of America, died on Wednesday around 17.50 after being knocked from a parked vehicle which had stopped due to traffic caused by elephants around the Maramba Cultural Bridge,” Southern Province Police Commissioner Auxensio Daka told the Zambian national broadcaster, ZNBC.

It is the second such attack this year after another American tourist was killed in March this year during a game drive in a Zambian national park when an elephant charged a truck, flipped it over, killed the tourist and injured five others.

Zambian authorities have called on tourists to exercise extreme caution while observing wildlife around the country.

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American Tourist, 64, Dies After Elephant 'Knocked' Her from Vehicle and Trampled Her in Zambia

The New Mexico woman's death marks the second U.S. tourist to be killed by an elephant in Zambia this year

A tourist from the United States was killed by an elephant in Zambia this week — in what now marks the second fatal elephant attack on an American visitor in the country this year.

Juliana Gle Tourneau, 64, was pulled from her car by an elephant in the Zambian city of Livingstone on Wednesday, June 19, the Associated Press , the BBC and Forbes reported, citing local officials and Zambia's ZNBC.

The New Mexico woman, who was spending time with a group near the city's Maramba Cultural Bridge, was "knocked from a parked vehicle which had stopped due to traffic caused by elephants around the Maramba Cultural Bridge," the Southern Province Police Commissioner Auxensio Daka reportedly told ZNBC.

Tourneau was then trampled by one of the elephants in the herd that the group was watching, per the AP. She died at 5:50 p.m. local time.

Henrik Karlsson/Getty

The tourist's death comes just two months after another elephant in the country's Kafue National Park attacked a safari group — leading to the death of an 80-year-old American woman.

As confirmed by hospitality and conservation company Wilderness, the elderly woman and five others had their vehicle charged at by an “aggressive” bull elephant around 9:30 a.m. local time on March 30. The group was on a photography tour at the time, per The Telegraph , and they had been staying at the Lufupa Tented Camp.

Footage of the attack showed the elephant running behind the vehicle and then charging once it stopped. The animal then flipped the vehicle and one person could be heard yelling.

“This is a devastating incident for everyone involved and we are doing our best to support the family and all affected and to respect their wishes for privacy,” a spokesperson previously told PEOPLE.

Wilderness' chief executive officer Keith Vincent shared in a statement at the time that the attack was a "tragic event" that occurred as the vehicle’s route was “blocked” due to vegetation. The five other guests were injured.

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US tourist killed in Zambia elephant attack, the second this year

A U.S. tourist was killed by an elephant in the Zambian city of Livingstone Wednesday — in the second such attack in the country this year- local officials said.

The officials said Friday that 64-year-old Juliana Gle Tourneau was killed when an elephant that was part of a herd the tourists were watching attacked their vehicle, threw Tourneau out and trampled her.

She was part of a group that had stopped near the Maramba Cultural Bridge due to the traffic caused by the elephant herd near the bridge, they added.

"Juliana Gle Tourneau, 64, of New Mexico, United States of America, died on Wednesday around 17.50 after being knocked from a parked vehicle which had stopped due to traffic caused by elephants around the Maramba Cultural Bridge," Southern Province Police Commissioner Auxensio Daka told the Zambian national broadcaster, ZNBC.

It is the second such attack this year after another American tourist was killed in March this year during a game drive in a Zambian national park when an elephant charged a truck, flipped it over, killed the tourist and injured five others.

Zambian authorities have called on tourists to exercise extreme caution while observing wildlife around the country.

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