24 Best Places to Visit in Africa

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

24. Ait Benhaddao (Morocco)

At the edge of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco is the incredible city of Ait Benhaddou. Also known as the Mud Brick City, Ait Benhaddou is an ancient fortified settlement that was a haven for travelers traveling between the Sahara and the city of Marrakesh. On a trip to Ait Benhaddou, you can tour the earthen buildings, explore the ancient granary at the top of the hill town, and even visit the tomb of Ben-Haddou.

23. Isalo National Park (Madagascar)

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, Isolo National Park is undoubtedly a highlight. Within the park, you will have access to a wide variety of terrain. Be prepared to see towering valleys, lush green palm-trees and even unique sandstone formations. The best way to see Isalo National Park is through a guided trek, and many people opt for overnight camping to enhance the experience of a lifetime.

22. Zanzibar (Tanzania)

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

21. Jane (Gardener)

Probably the most historically and architecturally interesting city in all of Mali is Jene. The city served as an important element of the Trans-Saharan gold trade, and it is still a regional centre, thanks to its impressive weekly market that gathers residents from all the surrounding regions. However, by far the most astonishing landmark in the city is the Great Mosque, the largest mud brick building in the world. Islamic mosque 13 's century, although it officially in 1907 had not been completed.

20. Lake Malawi (Malawi, Tanzania and Mozambique)

One of the largest bodies of water in Africa is Lake Malawi. As the name suggests, most of the lake lies within the borders of Malawi, but it also extends into the countries of Tanzania and Mozambique. If you want to see Lake Malawi, one of the best ways to do so is by visiting the Malawi National Park located at the southern end of the lake. There are miles of hiking available in the park, not to mention countless vantage points where you can admire the lake and take great photos.

19. Etosha National Park (Namibia)

The second largest game reserve in Namibia is Etosha National Park. It was built around the Etosha Salt Pan, towards which many animals gravitate. As a result, the national park is a great place for wildlife viewing. Be sure to bring binoculars along, as you will be able to see zebras, springboks, lions, giraffes, elephants and more. Three resting camps are designated for visitor accommodation, so you can see these amazing animals 24/7 . 

18. Lalibela (Ethiopia)

The city of Lalibela in Ethiopia is known as the city of pilgrimage. There are 11 monolithic, rock-cut churches in Lalibela, each of which is fascinating to explore. Most of the inhabitants are Egyptian Orthodox Christians, and most churches were built in the 12th and 13th centuries. If you only have time for a tour of one church in Lalibela, make it Bet Giorgis, which is shaped like a cross and carved entirely out of the rock in a majestic way. 

17. Virunga National Park (DR Congo)

Near the eastern border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and just minutes from Uganda, is Virunga National Park. Virunga was established in 1925 by King Albert of Belgium, and was the first national park in Africa. Poaching was previously a serious problem in the park, but is now a growing tourist destination. Virunga National Park is most famous for its mountain gorillas, but you can also spot Tongo chimpanzees or hike to the summit of Nyiragongo volcano to watch the world's largest lava lake glow. 

16. Fish River Valley (Namibia)

The incredible Fish River Canyon in southern Namibia is one of the largest canyons in the world, and is a spectacular, breathtaking sight to behold. As one of the natural wonders of Africa, the Fish River Valley is one of the most popular attractions in the country. If you're up for adventure, you can trek along the Fish River Canyon Trail, or you can take a scenic overhead flight to admire the multicolored Rock Canyon opposite the bright blue waters of the river. 

15. Merzouga (Morocco)

While Merzouga is a small village, it is a popular destination for travelers in Morocco. Located in the Sahara Desert, Merzouga is surrounded by vast sand dunes known as Erg Chebbi. Most of the local population is Berber, a group that is traditionally nomadic. If you visit, you can join a camel safaris to witness the traditional Berber lifestyle. Apart from checking out the nomadic desert lifestyle, you can try bird watching in the spring, when a wide range of birds migrate from the area. 

14. Praslin (Seychelles)

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

13. Okavango Delta (Botswana)

Where the Okavango River meets the Kalahari's Basin, you'll find the Okavango Delta. The delta is breathtaking to behold, and the water source means it is almost always surrounded by wildlife. The Okavango Delta is a popular place for safaris, and you can also enjoy some amazing views. A great and unforgettable way to explore the Okavango Delta is by airfare, which lets you see some big game animals along the Okavango River. 

12. Black River Gorges National Park (Mauritius)

Mauritius is one of the incredible islands in the Indian Ocean located just off the east coast of Africa. Known for its beaches and tropical weather, Mauritius is also home to the spectacular Black River Gorges National Park. The park is relatively new, having been established only in 1994 to protect the natural beauty of the island . When you visit, you will be able to hike along the gorgeous trails and see a wide range of endemic wildlife and beautiful waterfalls. 

11. Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania)

In the far north of Tanzania, near the Kenyan border, lies the famous Mount Kilimanjaro. The summit is the highest in Africa, and the highest free-standing mountain in the world, making it a bucket-list destination for many travelers. While the very fit can hike to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, there are other ways to explore the region. There are several short, easy hikes around the base of the mountain with some gorgeous waterfalls and lots of amazing views. 

10. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda)

If you are interested in seeing rare wildlife, then 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 visit the gorgeous lakes from two hubs in Buhoma to Nkoringo and kayak. However, the main attraction is keeping an eye on the 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)

The most famous of the many parks 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. Although 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 safaris. Top attractions in Kruger National Park include the Crocodile River View Point, the Iron Age village known as Masorini, and an abundance of the big five animals: lion, Cape buffalo, rhinoceros, African elephant, and leopard. 

8. Marrakech (Morocco)

After Rabat and Casablanca, Marrakech is the largest city in Morocco. It is the most popular destination in the country, as it is such an exciting city with an ancient history and amazing architecture. Marrakech's historic district is called the Medina, and its main square is the bustling Jemaa al-Fna, where you can watch snake charmers and acrobats stroll through shops and snack on local culinary delights. You can also visit the souks or outdoor markets, and then relax at the local hammam, or spa. 

7. Luxor (Egypt)

The ancient city of Luxor in Egypt is divided into halves by the Nile. On the East Bank, you'll find the famous Luxor Temple as well as unique museums such as 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 sites in Africa, as it served as the burial place of many Egyptian kings. 

6. Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Tanzania)

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

5. Cape Town (South Africa)

The capital city of South Africa is Cape Town, an extraordinary, historic and vibrant city named after the Cape of Good Hope. To learn Cape Town's history, be sure to explore incredible sites such as the colorful houses in the Bo-Kaap neighborhood as well as Robben Island, where political prisoners such as Nelson Mandela were once held. One of the top natural attractions is Table Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the Cape of Good Hope as well as the sprawling city. You can climb Table Mountain or ride the cable cars. 

4. Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)

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

3. Victoria Falls (Zambia and Zimbabwe)

On the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe is the Victoria Falls, an incredible waterfall on the Zambezi River. In Zimbabwe, the falls as well as the surrounding town are known as Victoria Falls. Across the border in Zambia, the falls are called Mosi-o-Tunya. From December to March, the waterfalls are more dramatic as it is also the rainy season, but the rest of the year can offer less obscure views. Apart from admiring the views, you can enjoy the Victoria Falls by canoeing or rafting near its base or by taking a romantic sunset cruise down the falls. 

2. Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)

In northeastern 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 will find within the park. More than a million wildebeest, and more than 200,000 zebras, migrate through the plains each year. When you visit Serengeti National Park, you will be able to spot wildlife like cheetah, panther, giraffe, buffalo, gazelle and much more. Hot air balloon trips as well as photo safaris are both incredible ways to make the most of the Serengeti. 

1. Giza Cemetery (Egypt)

If you've always wanted to see the pyramids in Egypt, make Giza your next travel destination. Giza is the gateway to some of Egypt's most iconic structures, and 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 visit the Sphinx, several smaller pyramids, and several incredible museums that help explain the role of these pyramids and their importance in Egyptian history.

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