Africa is one of the most stunning continents in the whole world. There’s so much to see and do, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
This article is the best travel information which will help you to discover the best African countries to visit.
There are many countries in Africa, so planning your vacation can be tricky if you don’t know where you want to go.
Vibrant cities, small rural villages, and breathtaking scenery. Africa is full of these things.
It’s called the Mother Continent for a reason, it’s supposed to have been where humanity began. There are so many hidden gems you may never have heard of before, as well as tried and true classics you cannot miss.
Africa is a continent of adventure. Tourism to the continent is on the up and up, and for good reason. With so much on offer from each country, you have to decide what you want to get out of your trip.
In this article, we will be listing some of the best countries in Africa you need to visit. Read on to find out more.
The Best African Countries to Visit On Your Next Adventure
The best African countries to visit are of course subjective. Everyone’s experiences will differ. But, here are a few of the most popular destinations to add to your African adventure bucket list.
1. Morocco
Located in Northern Africa, Morocco has so much to offer. Bustling cities, quiet seaside villages, and snowy mountains, Morocco has it all.
It’s a melting pot of cultures. With elements of European, Arabic, and Berber influences to find on every corner. Get a taste of delicious Moroccan cuisine and your taste buds will be in heaven. Tagine dishes are the food of the gods!
Ait Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site you have to cross off your list. Experience pre-Saharan life with original houses with their unique structures. For history buffs, this is a must-see.
Of course, you have to make sure to visit the Djemma al Fna. This is the main square in Marrakech and from 10 am onwards it becomes a hub of activity. Street theatres, snake charmers, and incredible street food. There’s something here to stimulate all the senses.
2. Zambia
Zambia is a gorgeous country that has so much to see. If you’re a nature lover, there are so excuses for missing out on this one.
Zambia is home to Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the whole world. For thrill-seekers, take a microlight over them for the view of a lifetime.
If you get there at the right time of the year, take a dip in the famous Devil’s Pool. Experience the beautiful views from your own personal pool. For something a little more thrilling, try white-water rafting down the Zambezi. But make sure you watch out for crocs!
Zambia is also home to incredible wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for hippos, giraffes, and hundreds of beautiful birds.
3. Tanzania
Tanzania is a country rich in nature reserves and natural beauty. Staying here should be at the top of everyone’s bucket list.
The people here are some of the friendliest you will ever meet. They will go above and beyond to help you out and make you feel welcome in their country.
Serengeti National Park is one of the best safaris you can go on. Here, you can expect to see the ‘big five’: Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, and Buffalo.
Tanzania is home to the famous Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s an incredible mountain to climb. But if hiking isn’t for you, the view from the ground is breathtaking too.
If you are looking for the best African countries to visit, Tanzania should be on the list.
4. South Africa
South Africa is an adventure lover’s paradise. There’s so much to do and see here, you’ll never want to leave!
Take a trip to Durban to experience some of the best Indian cuisines outside of India. Go on a road trip up to the Transkei or travel the Garden Route for stunning nature and incredible surf.
For a quiet weekend getaway, take a drive down to Vermaaklikheid for a relaxing boathouse retreat. Here you can leave technology behind and enjoy the simple things in life like fishing and boat rides.
Stay in the amazing Kruger National Park in a hut amongst the wildlife. Experience one of the best safari parks in the world for memories that will last a lifetime.
5. Namibia
This country also made our list of the best African countries to visit.
Namibia is another country in Africa where you can spot the Big Five wild animals. Etosha National Park is the best place to go if seeing them is the main goal of your African vacation.
For an authentic, raw experience, opt to stay in guesthouses. This gives you the chance to live like the locals as well as interact with them on a deeper level.
Make sure to visit the Okahandja craft market for some of the best handmade items you’ll ever see. Here, people from all across Nabimia come together to sell their wares. They make for great souvenirs so make sure to get your hands on something!
You may recognize the Namib desert sand dunes from the movie “Max Max: Fury Road.” They are some of the highest sand dunes in the world, so try climbing them or take a hot air balloon over them!
6. Madagascar
The island nation of Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world. The landscapes here are so rich and diverse, there are lots to see here. With deserts, beaches, and rainforests in plenty, you will have plenty to do here.
Fun fact: You can find 5% of all plant and animal species in the world only in Madagascar!
To experience trees that are over 800 years old, take a trip to the Avenue of the Baobabs. You will feel humbled to walk amongst them and it’s a great place to reconnect with nature.
The UNESCO World Heritage site of Ambohimanga is perfect for history buffs. It is a fortified Royal settlement that is easy to get to and well worth a visit.
7. Kenya
It is not easy to list the best African countries to visit without mentioning Kenya!
Kenya is a hotspot for wildlife activity as it is the main site of the Great Migration. Over 2 million zebras, wildebeest, and gazelle travel from the Maasai Mara to the Serengeti.
It is an incredible thing to witness, and people all around the world travel to Kenya to see it happen. Here, it is easy to find huge herds of elephants or lions when on a safari drive.
Not only is the wildlife and nature of Kenya incredible, but so are the Kenyan people. Interact with the Maasai people and learn about their ways of life. Or, take a trip along to Loyangalani along the shores of the Jade Sea for a warm welcome from the Turkana people.
8. Botswana
Botswana is a country dedicated to environmental conservation and wildlife protection. Botswana is a high-end but low-impact tourist spot. This means you can get the safari experience without the crowds of tourists.
The Okavango Delta is a must-visit place in Botswana. This is where you can find natural beauties which remain untouched by man. Experience the cultures of the San and Hambukshu people in the Tsodilo Hills.
Botswana is less populated with tourists, so you can experience a safari in a different way. Instead of a safari drive, take a traditional mokoros canoe to see the game closer than ever before.
The Chobe National Park and Central Kalahari Game Reserves are the best in Botswana. Also, the sunsets in Botswana are out of this world incredible, so make sure to bring a camera.