A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
With more than 50 African countries to choose from, deciding on your destination can be daunting. Initially, consider the type of vacation you want or the specific sights you’d like to experience.
One of Southern Africa’s most exclusive safari destinations, Botswana is a true wildlife haven. Its landscapes are as diverse as they are beautiful, ranging from the lush wetlands of the Okavango Delta to the arid drama of the Kalahari Desert. Botswana is also one of Africa’s most stable countries, with a conscientious government and a relatively high standard of living.
The Okavango Delta in northern Botswana is one of the planet’s most beautiful wilderness areas. Its aquatic landscape goes through dramatic periods of flood and drought; yet an astonishing variety of animals have adapted to the changes, making this one of the best safari destinations in Africa. You can explore it on foot, in a 4×4 safari vehicle, or from the water in a traditional dugout canoe (mokoro). However you choose to experience the Okavango, a wonderland of wildlife-filled plains, forests, and waterways awaits.
Top 9 Spots to Chill for Budget Travelers in Africa
Located in Cape Town’s Table Bay, Robben Island is one of South Africa’s top historical attractions. For centuries it was used as a penal colony, predominantly for political prisoners. Although its maximum security prisons have now closed, the island is famously known as the place where former South African president Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Many prominent members of political parties like thePACandANCwere also held there alongside him.
“Ecotourism,” “green travel,” “sustainable travel,” and “responsible travel” – these terms are frequently used when discussing trips to Africa. However, it’s essential to distinguish between marketing jargon and genuine responsible travel practices.
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in West Africa, Ghana has something for every kind of traveler. From its cosmopolitan capital to historic cities steeped in Ashanti culture, the country is known for its urban flair; moreover, its parks and game reserves are filled with exotic wildlife. On the coast, secluded beaches are interspersed with forts that remind visitors of Ghana’s tragic role in the slave trade. This is one of the region’s wealthiest, most stable countries, which makes it a great starting point for first-time visitors to Africa.
Generally speaking, the best time to visit Ghana coincides with the northern hemisphere winter (October to April). During these months, temperatures remain high; however, humidity and precipitation are at their lowest. There are many advantages to traveling during the dry season, the most notable being the reduced chance of wet weather days. Moreover, mosquitoes are less of a problem at this time, and the country’s secondary dirt roads are easier to navigate. However, better deals are often available out of season, making the May to September rainy season attractive for those on a budget.
Gabon is a beautiful Central African destination known for its lush national parks, which together account for around 10% of the country’s total land mass. These parks protect a bounty of rare wildlife – including the elusive forest elephant and the critically endangered western lowland gorilla. Outside its parks, Gabon boasts pristine beaches and a reputation for political stability. The capital, Libreville, is a modern urban playground.
Along with Tanzania, Kenya is the archetypal African safari destination. It is synonymous with the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, and home to iconic parks like the Maasai Mara National Reserve as well as a slew of private conservancies. For those in search of a truly memorable safari experience, Kenya also offers some of the most luxurious lodges on the continent. In this article, we take a look at a few of our favorites; ranging from classic tented camps to unique private villas.
Malawi is renowned for its warm hospitality, earning a reputation as one of the friendliest countries in Africa. This densely populated, landlocked nation features nearly a third of its area occupied by the breathtaking Lake Malawi. The expansive freshwater lake boasts stunning beaches teeming with vibrant fish and the occasional sighting of hippos and crocodiles. Additionally, nature enthusiasts can explore wildlife parks and various hiking destinations, such as Mulanje Mountain and the Zomba Plateau.
Equatorial Guinea is one of the African continent’s least visited countries. It has a reputation for political instability with a history full ofcoupsand corruption; and although vast offshore oil reserves generate huge wealth, the majority of Equatoguineans live well below the poverty line. However, for those in search of a totally different vacation experience, Equatorial Guinea offers plenty of hidden treasures. Pristine beaches and dense forests filled with endangered primates are just part of the country’s considerable charm.
The most famous of Morocco’s four imperial cities, Marrakesh is filled with must-see attractions. Founded in 1062, its history is reflected in a wealth of fascinating mosques, palaces, and museums, each with its own stories to tell. In the walled medina, visitors can watch artisans practicing skills that have remained unchanged for centuries and purchase their products in the bustling souks. Luxury riads, tranquil gardens, and annual arts festivals make up some of the city’s modern attractions. This article explores 10 of the best ways to spend your time in Marrakesh, from sampling traditional street fare in Djemma el Fna to learning how to prepare Moroccan meals at one of the city’s culinary schools.
Kenya’s top ten wildlife parks and reserves are listed below and reflect my personal opinion. The exceptional quality of Kenya’s parks and reserves make it the most popular safari destination in Africa, with each offering unique experiences throughout the best times to visit.
Tanzania’s spectacular Serengeti National Park covers a massive area, but there are surprisingly few lodging options (especially in comparison with the smaller Masai Mara National Reserve located just across the border in Kenya). In a reserve that covers 5,700 square miles/ 14,760 square kilometers, there are only a dozen or so permanent lodges and camps on offer.
Île de Gorée, also known as Goree Island, is a small island located just off the coast of Dakar, Senegal’s sprawling capital city. It has a convoluted colonial history and was once a crucial stop on Atlantic trade routes from Africa to Europe and the Americas. Moreover, Île de Gorée has earned a reputation as the foremost destination in Senegal for those eager to learn more about the horrors of the slave trade.
When it comes to traveling to new locations abroad, one of the best ways to prepare for the differences in culture and people is to watch films and documentaries about your destination. If you’re traveling to the continent of Africa, there are plenty of films that can inspire you to explore places you might not have otherwise considered.
If you have a friend or relative with a passion for Africa travel, consider using that passion as the inspiration for your next birthday or Christmas gift. Options range from items that will come in handy on their next visit to the Mother Continent to presents that will evoke memories of their last trip and help to tide them over until their next adventure in Africa.
Rwanda is a small East African country that draws visitors from all over the world, primarily to see its critically endangered mountain gorillas. The country’s history is marred by political strife and civil war, and in 1994, Rwanda was the setting for one of the world’s most horrific genocides. Nevertheless, Rwanda has evolved into one of the African continent’s safest and most stable countries. Its infrastructure is good, its capital city Kigali is booming, and its mountainous landscapes are some of the world’s most spectacular.
