Top 27 Must-Visit Destinations in Africa

What are the best places to visit in Africa? We cycled the continent from Cairo to Cape Town and have visited several countries in Africa since our first visit in 2008. Every time we leave the continent, we feel that we truly have left our hearts in Africa. It is one of our favorite places to explore on earth.

These are the best places to visit in Africa that will make you fall in love with the continent. This is not a simple roundup; it’s first-hand advice from travelers who have actually ventured into Africa.

Best Places to Visit in Africa

When traveling to the birthplace of civilization, you can’t help but feel the energy of the continent. It is a vast expanse that boasts unique energy and culture in each country.

During our journey from Cairo to Cape Town, we witnessed this transformation right before our eyes. From the arid deserts of the Sahara to the lush jungles of Zambia, and the breathtaking plains of East Africa, Africa will undoubtedly capture your heart just as it did ours. Here are the most beautiful places to visit in Africa.

1. Mount Kilimanjaro – Tanzania

Nobody can deny that Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the best places to visit in Africa. Known affectionately as Kili, it is the highest mountain in Africa, towering at 19,340 feet. Summiting this majestic peak is a challenging and sometimes grueling task.

Our experience of reaching the highest peak, Uhuru, is something we cherish! Anyone with moderate to high fitness can undertake this challenge and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the world’s tallest free-standing mountain.

2. Serengeti National Park – Tanzania and Kenya

Recognized as one of the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena, the Wildebeest Migration is a sight to behold. This migration traverses the open plains of Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya.

Over one million wildebeests and zebras migrate to seek greener pastures, all while being closely followed by various predators. A unique way to witness this migration is from above in a hot air balloon.

3. Masai Mara National Reserve – Kenya

The Masai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s counterpart to the Serengeti and offers spectacular wildlife viewing. This reserve is actually linked to the Serengeti and is celebrated for its abundant wildlife. During our hot air balloon experience over the Masai Mara, we landed in Tanzania!

On our adventures in the Masai Mara, we managed to spot all of the Big Five. It is undoubtedly one of the most magnificent destinations in Africa.

4. Lake Nakuru – Kenya

Lake Nakuru is one of the prime locations in Africa to see rhinos in their natural habitat. The African rhinoceros faces significant threats, yet at Lake Nakuru, they are protected, and you have a good chance of spotting them. Additionally, it is famous for its bird migration, often teeming with thousands of flamingoes along its shores.

5. Ngorongoro Crater – Tanzania

The Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest unbroken volcanic caldera—a remarkable destination in Africa. Measuring 19 kilometers across, 600 meters deep, this wildlife sanctuary provides a unique environment for countless species.

When we explored the Ngorongoro Crater, it felt as if we were entering a scene from a fantasy film, with thousands of animals coexisting peacefully. The area is like a “natural enclosure” for wildlife, making it an unforgettable experience.

6. Virunga National Park – Rwanda and Uganda

The stunning chain of volcanic mountains that comprise the Virunga Mountains lies along the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. Their incredible beauty comes from their lush, fertile slopes and their status as the sole habitat for endangered mountain gorillas.

We had the opportunity to meet the world’s leading expert on gorillas, which intensified our desire to see these magnificent creatures. Besides gorillas, Virunga National Park is also home to chimps, forest elephants, and okapis.

7. Lalibella – Ethiopia

Ethiopia often flies under the radar, yet it is an incredibly captivating destination in Africa. With its rich history and stunning scenery, it is much more than the famine of the 1980s that many remember. Lalibella is a complex of rock-hewn churches which offers a glimpse into the country’s deep Christian roots.

8. Table Mountain – South Africa

Upon our arrival in Cape Town, we faced clouds obstructing our view of the famed Table Mountain. However, after a few days, the majestic mountain revealed itself in all its glory. Cape Town is our favorite city in Africa, serving as an ideal base for exploring South Africa.

9. The Namib Desert – Sossusvlei Namibia

This immense clay pan, surrounded by magnificent sand dunes, is located in Namibia’s Namib Naukluft Park. Some of the incredible sand dunes here reach heights of 300 meters, making them among the tallest in the world.

10. Okavango Delta – Botswana

The Okavango Delta is often mistakenly referred to as the Okavanga Swamp. It is the world’s largest inland delta, formed as Lake Makgadikgadi dried up over thousands of years. This unique water feature has become a major attraction for explorers and tourists alike.

11. Fish River Canyon – Namibia

After the Grand Canyon, Namibia’s Fish River Canyon holds the title of the second most spectacular canyon on earth. Stretching 160 kilometers with a depth of up to 550 meters, this natural wonder provides breathtaking views and wide-open spaces.

12. Victoria Falls – Zambia and Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is renowned for being the largest waterfall curtain on the planet. Located on the Zambezi River, the sheer power of the falling water will leave you in awe.

13. Chobe National Park – Botswana

While cycling through Chobe National Park, we experienced the thrill of being surrounded by Africa’s largest concentration of elephants. This park is ideal for river safaris that allow you to observe wildlife from a unique perspective.

14. Lake Malawi – Malawi

Though not as frequented by tourists, Lake Malawi is a special place that offers idyllic camping experiences along its shores. The warm locals introduced us to their rich culture with songs and dances each evening, creating unforgettable memories.

15. Kruger National Park – South Africa

Kruger National Park stands as South Africa’s premier wildlife viewing destination. Known for its remarkable diversity of wildlife, it is a must-visit for anyone hoping to see the iconic Big Five.

16. Great Pyramids at Giza – Egypt

The Pyramids of Giza are a significant element of Egypt’s rich and complex cultural heritage. These iconic structures primarily served as tombs for the Pharaohs, showcasing a remarkable achievement in ancient architecture.

17. White Desert – Egypt

The enchanting White Desert near Farafra is a lesser-known gem of Egypt. Its stunning chalky formations created by sandstorms offer a surreal experience, attracting adventurous travelers.

18. Where the White and Blue Nile Meet – Sudan

Sudan is not typically on many travel itineraries, yet it encapsulates the cultural richness of Africa. This region where the two Nile rivers converge is an extraordinary blend of desert landscapes and vibrant local life.

19. The Souks of Marrakech – Morocco

The bustling souks in Marrakech are alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Morocco’s ancient civilization. Exploring the Medina is a captivating experience that immerses you in local life.

20. Fez – Morocco

Renowned as the oldest city in Morocco, Fez offers a UNESCO World Heritage site experience. Walking through the vibrant streets of Fes el-Bali showcases the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

21. Blue Nile Gorge – Ethiopia

Climbing the Blue Nile Gorge is a breathtaking experience that grants spectacular views of Ethiopia’s dramatic landscape.

22. Karnak Temple Complex – Egypt

This grand temple complex is one of the largest in the world. Containing numerous temples, it serves as a testament to Egypt’s ancient civilization and history.

23. Valley of the Kings – Egypt

Located near Luxor, this valley is home to around 63 royal tombs, notable for their historical significance and grandeur.

24. Abu Simbel – Egypt

The two magnificent temples at Abu Simbel are remarkable feats of engineering carved from the sandstone cliffs over three millennia ago, created to honor the Pharaoh Ramesses II.

25. Zanzibar – Tanzania

Situated off Tanzania’s coast, Zanzibar is a tropical paradise renowned for its white sandy beaches and vibrant culture. The enchanting Stone Town offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history.

26. Seychelles

This exotic destination in the Indian Ocean boasts stunning beaches and unique wildlife, making it an unforgettable travel hotspot.

27. Madagascar

The island of Madagascar is a haven for adventure seekers, housing unique wildlife and diverse ecosystems found nowhere else on earth.

When to Visit Africa

Africa’s climate varies significantly across its vast continent, and while it is a year-round destination, travelers should remain mindful of seasonal changes.

The best times for an African safari will depend on your specific destination:

• South Africa safaris are ideal between May and October.
• Tanzania is best visited from June to October, particularly for witnessing the migration that peaks in June and July.
• Kenya safaris thrive from June to October, with migration occurring in August.
• For Egypt, the optimal visiting months are October through April, avoiding the extreme summer heat.

African beauty is endless, difficult to select a definite favorite; however, Zanzibar, the Serengeti, Cape Town, Fish River Canyon, and the Ngorongoro Crater are undeniably top contenders.

Additional Travel Information

Tips for travelers include:

• Wildlife Viewing: The Serengeti stands out for big five viewing, while Lake Nakuru is excellent for rhinoceros, and Amboseli is known for elephants.
• Most Visited Countries: Among the countries in this post, the most popular ones are Morocco, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, and Egypt.

Africa is a continent rich in culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Ensure to appreciate every moment in these unforgettable destinations.