Summary Top 10 Things to Do Spots in East Africa:
Loosely defined and impossibly large, East Africa is an umbrella term that covers an incredible array of different countries, landscapes, cultures, and ecosystems. This diversity means that there is something for everyone, whether you’re more interested in a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti, or an expedition to see the ancient rock-cut churches of Ethiopia.
View More: Top 10 Must-Do Experiences for Your Africa Bucket List
1. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve has earned itself a reputation as one of Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations, and for good reason. Regardless of the time of year, wildlife sightings are abundant and diverse. It’s possible to see the Big Five in a single day, and during the July-November dry season, the plains are teeming with the vast herds of the annual wildebeest migration. In particular, watching the herds crossing the Mara River in their thousands is a spectacle few will ever forget. Cultural visits to traditional Maasai villages are another highlight of this spectacular East African reserve.
2. Omo River Region, Ethiopia
Part of Africa’s incredible Great Rift Valley, the Omo River Region is among the most remote destinations in East Africa. However, those who are willing to undertake the long and challenging journey will be rewarded with stunning scenery, and the chance to visit villages that have remained unchanged for centuries. There are many different tribes in this part of Ethiopia, each with its own traditional dress, culture, and ceremonies. To enhance your Omo River experience, it is advisable to join a tour, some of which combine cultural visits with thrilling white-water rafting on the region’s famous rapids.
3. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Draped in mist and lined with lush vegetation, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park lies deep within the Virunga Mountains. As Africa’s oldest national park, it stands out as one of the best locations globally to encounter the critically endangered mountain gorilla. With only around 800 of these remarkable animals left, sharing a moment with them in their natural habitat is a deeply moving experience and should be at the top of any wildlife enthusiast’s wishlist. The park is also home to several other rare species, including 29 endemic bird species.
4. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar is famous for its intriguing history and stunning beaches. Located off the coast of Tanzania and bordered by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar once played a pivotal role on the spice route. Here, Arab rulers traded slaves for spices; today, Zanzibar’s exotic heritage is reflected in its intricate architecture. Stone Town is one of the island’s key attractions, featuring ornate houses, narrow alleyways, a Sultan’s palace, and numerous mosques. Zanzibar’s pristine white-sand beaches are picturesque and its coral reefs are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving.
5. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Those in search of the ultimate safari adventure should consider combining a visit to the Maasai Mara with a trip to Serengeti National Park in neighboring Tanzania. There, breathtaking open plains, dotted with acacia trees and wildlife, offer exceptional viewing opportunities. Notably, this is an excellent location to observe predators like lions and cheetahs in action, especially during the January-March rainy season, when wildebeest gather in the southern Serengeti to give birth. The newborns become enticing prey for hungry predators. In April, the herds begin migrating to the Maasai Mara, ensuring that game-viewing remains exceptional year-round.
6. Watamu, Kenya
Unlike many of Kenya’s other beach towns, Watamu is still considered an enclave of peace and tranquility. Centrally located along Kenya’s exquisite coastline, Watamu is small, laid-back, and brimming with history. It is best known for its stunning bays, palm-fringed beaches, and thriving coral reefs. Deep-sea fishing is a popular activity, and numerous dive schools provide opportunities to learn scuba diving. On land, beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood, Mida Creek is home to remarkable birdlife, and Gedi Ruins provide insights into the lives of the Swahili people from the 13th Century.
7. Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area is dominated by the ancient Ngorongoro Crater. Approximately 1,970 feet (600 meters) deep, the crater holds the title of the world’s largest intact caldera and is widely regarded as one of East Africa’s most incredible natural attractions. Within its rim, countless animals roam the grassy plains, including a significant population of critically endangered black rhinos and some of the largest remaining tusker elephants. Black-maned lions and flocks of flamingos appearing on the crater’s soda lake during the breeding season are other impressive sights.
8. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
As one of the continent’s most iconic sights, Mount Kilimanjaro stands in perfect isolation against the picturesque backdrop of the African savannah. At 19,340 feet (5,895 meters), it is the tallest peak in Africa and the world’s highest free-standing mountain. Those possessing a reasonable level of fitness and a spirit of adventure should consider making the climb for an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience. Climbing with a guide is mandatory, and it is advisable to allow extra days for acclimatization to altitude. Depending on your chosen route, the climb typically takes five to nine days. For those with limited time, nearby Mount Meru offers a great alternative.
9. Lalibela, Ethiopia
Situated in the heart of Ethiopia’s northern highlands, Lalibela is a historically significant town for the country’s Orthodox Christians. In the 12th Century, it was envisioned as a ‘New Jerusalem’, a pilgrimage site for those unable to reach the Holy Land due to conflict. Today, its stunning rock-hewn churches draw visitors from around the globe. There are 11 of these monolithic churches, each intricately carved from solid rock. One of them, Biete Medhani Alem, is believed to be the largest monolithic church in the world, and all are a testament to the dedication of their creators.
10. Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya
The highlight of this Rift Valley park is the eponymous Lake Nakuru, a soda lake known for its incredible flamingo population. The density of the flamingo flock varies throughout the year. During the dry season, water levels recede, making the lake more alkaline and creating an abundance of algae for the birds to feed on. Consequently, numbers of lesser and greater flamingos can soar to as many as two million, forming a rose-tinted haze across the lake’s surface. Additionally, the park houses a diverse range of other wildlife, including lions, rhinos, and around 450 species of birds.
