Africa: Your Ultimate Bucket List:
Africa is a vast continent—the second largest in the world, in fact. It comprises 54 countries, countless different landscapes, and a myriad of unique ethnic groups. With that in mind, it’s almost impossible to pick a top 10 list of things to do in Africa, but we’ve come up with a few of the most iconic options for your vacation. From culinary tours to wildlife adventures, this is your ultimate African bucket list.
1. Go on Safari
The word “safari” means “to journey” in Swahili. Fittingly, going on a wildlife safari is one of the main reasons people travel to Africa. East and Southern Africa are the most popular safari destinations. In East Africa, you can witness the annual Great Migration of millions of wildebeest from a hot-air balloon, or track endangered mountain gorillas through the rainforests of Uganda and Rwanda. Southern Africa offers plenty of opportunities for spotting the Big Five (in a game vehicle, on foot or from the water). Keep things affordable by choosing a self-drive safari in South Africa or Namibia.
2. Relax on a Beach
North Africa’s beach resorts have attracted European sun-seekers to their shores for decades. However, if you want to escape the crowds, head further south. Africa’s east coast offers the beach-lover everything from budget huts on the idyllic Indian Ocean in Zanzibar to ultra-luxurious private islands in the Seychelles. Moreover, Africa’s west coast is lined with thousands of miles of palm-fringed beaches, perfect for relaxing with a good book. In South Africa, you can even encounter penguins on the beach or dive with great white sharks.
3. Hike a Mountain
Africa presents incredible hiking and trekking opportunities. The obvious choices for mountain enthusiasts are Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya, and Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. Moreover, South Africa’s Drakensberg Mountains are an absolute delight for both short hikes and longer treks. Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains and Ethiopia’s Simien Mountains are lesser-known but feature several of Africa’s highest peaks. If you’re not inclined to conquer a mountain but enjoy walking, consider the renowned walking safaris in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park.
4. Explore on Two Wheels
For adventure seekers, exploring Africa by bike provides a unique way to discover the continent. Riding allows you to immerse yourself in the local scenery, culture, and wildlife at a slower pace. Whether you crave an adrenaline-fueled cross-continent cycling adventure or a leisurely ride in Cape Town, there’s an ideal biking experience for you. Additionally, various motorbike tours offer thrilling insights, from motorcycle safaris in Tanzania to scenic rides along the South African coast.
5. Make a Difference Volunteering
Volunteering in Africa allows you to engage deeply with different cultures and communities. It’s a transformative experience that enriches your understanding of both the local way of life and your own values. Various programs offer options ranging from short-term help to long-term commitments, often as fundraising initiatives for local charities. This gives you an opportunity to participate in meaningful work while making a positive impact.
6. Discover the Continent’s History
The evolution of humanity began in Africa, with Tanzania’s Olduvai Gorge being a significant site for those interested in our early ancestors. A few million years later, the San people in southern Africa adorned caves with stunning paintings. Five millennia ago, the Egyptians were constructing awe-inspiring monuments and tombs that still stand today. During medieval times, the imperial cities of Fez and Marrakech thrived, remaining highlights of modern Morocco. The legacy of the slave trade significantly shaped both the East and West African coasts, while Ethiopia’s mountains are home to intricately carved Coptic churches.
7. Be Wildly Adventurous
Africa is teeming with high-octane adventures just waiting for you. At Victoria Falls, for instance, you can bungee jump, swim up to the edge of the world’s largest waterfall, or raft down some of the wildest rapids on the planet. Uganda and Ethiopia also boast exceptional rafting opportunities. Additionally, Senegal is renowned for its legendary surf spots, while Namibia excels in sandboarding and 4×4 adventures. You can even scuba dive among WWII wrecks in the Red Sea or snorkel with the world’s largest fish in Madagascar. For those interested in winter sports, Morocco’s Atlas Mountains provide ski slopes during the season.
8. Shop in Local Markets and Bazaars
Visiting markets and bazaars across Africa offers an incredible opportunity to see local artisans in action while gaining authentic insight into the country’s culture and cuisine. Moreover, these vibrant settings are perfect for photography. Practice your bargaining skills to snag unique souvenirs, and by shopping locally, you contribute to the community’s economy. Each market experience is distinct, whether you’re seeking tagine pots in Fes, browsing music in Accra, or having sandals crafted at a Maasai cattle auction in Tanzania.
9. Take a Culinary Tour
Culinary tours present a delicious blend of culture and history. In Africa, Morocco and South Africa are trending destinations famed for their gastronomic delights. Most tours involve shopping for ingredients at local markets, mastering traditional recipes, and, of course, indulging in some quality wine tasting and dining at acclaimed restaurants. Regardless of your destination, be sure to experience local specialties, which can range from gemsbok steaks in Namibia to mopane worms in Botswana—some dishes are uniquely intriguing, while others are downright delectable.
10. Attend a Festival
With thousands of ethnic groups in Africa—each celebrating their own unique traditions, religious observances, and harvest festivals—there’s often music and food being shared any night of the week. Nonetheless, as a visitor, gaining access to local events can be challenging. Fortunately, numerous large festivals and cultural celebrations occur annually, allowing you to enjoy organized film, poetry, drama, and music performances. If sports pique your interest, experiencing the electric atmosphere of a local soccer match is also a must.
