Are you looking for the best countries to visit in Africa this year?
Granted, a vacation to Africa isn’t the first thing that comes to the minds of the average traveler, mostly because of the stereotypes around African countries. But that doesn’t mean Africa doesn’t have some amazing destinations that every traveler MUST SEE.
If I might be bold to say the only reason you’re not packing your bags and getting ready to travel to these destinations is that you still have a lot of other destinations up on your bucket list to tick off, or you’re unfortunate enough to be the second group with no idea what the best African countries to visit are. If you’re the first, sorry I can’t help you. But if you’re the second, then stick around because that’s what this blog post is all about.
In this blog post, I’ll cover my top 10 countries to visit in Africa, judging from how safe they are to visit the list of activities you should prepare for. So, do me a favor and bookmark this page because you’re about to see the most amazing destinations in Africa you don’t want to miss.
Now, let’s spill the beans.
Top 10 Best Countries to Visit in Africa This Year
To start the list, I’d begin from number 10 and build up to number 1. If you’re following my list in this order, you’ll surely have a better experience with each country you visit.
Pro Tip: Don't try to pack all your trip at once. Africa is a vast continent and if not planned properly, you just might end up missing out on a lot.
10 – Tunisia
Located in northern Africa, Tunisia is a country rich in cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and magnificent deserts spanning miles. It holds some of the most magnificent ruins dating back to the Carthaginian and Roman Empires, like the El Djem Amphitheatre, one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in the world.
The Mediterranean Sea is to the north of this African country, dotting popular resort towns like Hammamet and Djerba island with sandy shores and whitewashed domes, perfect for a beach vacation or boat cruises.
You can enjoy a camel walk along the Sahara desert to the south or take in the stunning landscapes of the Chott el Jerid salt flats.
There is no shortage of experience when it comes to Tunisia. One city you must visit is this country’s capital, Tunis. Thank me later when you do.
See – 15 Things to Do in Tunisia
09 – Zimbabwe
Home to not one but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one of the world’s seven wonders, Zimbabwe is a country for the adventurous. Visitors can visit the infamous Victoria Falls, swim in its devil’s pool, or explore the Mana Pool National Park.
From the Great Zimbabwe ruins to the Victoria Falls, it’s impossible not to enjoy a trip to Zimbabwe. It makes a perfect destination for history and adventure lovers. Most visitors swim in the devil’s pool, walk along the side of Victoria Falls, or take a helicopter ride above it.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, then you should consider white rafting down the Zambezi River or Bungee jump from the cross path of the Victoria Falls.
08 – Seychelles
The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, off East Africa. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical vegetation, it is a top luxury destination for beach lovers looking to relax in exotic beach resorts and snorkel in the crystal-clear blue water.
Visiting Seychelles is perfect if you’re looking to dive, enjoy a swim underwater, take in the beauty of marine life, or enjoy a tour around Curieuse Island or Aldabra Atoll to see the giant Aldabra tortoises.
07 – Namibia
Namibia, located in southwestern Africa, is renowned for its stunning and diverse landscapes, including the vast Namib Desert with its iconic red sand dunes at Sossusvlei and the eerie Skeleton Coast, dotted with shipwrecks and seal colonies. Etosha National Park offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities and is home to many species like elephants, lions, and rhinos.
Namibia’s capital, Windhoek, and coastal town, Swakopmund, showcase a blend of German colonial architecture and modern African culture, providing a unique urban experience amidst natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the towering dunes, observing wildlife in their natural habitats, or immersing yourself in local cultures, Namibia is a place you should add to your bucket list.
06 – Mauritius
Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is famous for its stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and diverse culture. Located east of Madagascar, it boasts a mix of Indian, African, French, and Chinese influences.
The island offers a range of activities, from snorkeling and diving in coral reefs to hiking in the Black River Gorges National Park. The capital city, Port Louis, is known for its vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and the impressive Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mauritius is also renowned for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and delicious Creole cuisine.
From diving to snorkeling or taking a boat cruise, Mauritius is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some of the most stunning views.
05 – Rwanda
Rwanda, known as the land of a thousand hills, is one of the safest African countries to visit. It’s almost impossible to tell that you are in Africa from the beautiful Kigali convention center to BK Arena; Rwanda has some of the most stellar streets and views.
You can start your journey from Kigali and explore the neatest and safest city in Africa, or journey to Lake Kivu and take a hike on some of the islands holding some historical stories about Rwandan history, like the Napoleon island named after the shape of Napoleon’s hat.
You could visit the Volcanoes National Park and experience the infamous gorilla walk along with other wildlife or explore one of the numerous hiking destinations.
04 – Tanzania
Tanzania, located in East Africa, is renowned for its vast wilderness areas and rich cultural heritage. It is home to some of the world’s most famous natural attractions, including Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, and Serengeti National Park, known for its annual wildebeest migration.
Tanzania also boasts the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife, and the Zanzibar Archipelago’s pristine beaches and historic Stone Town, an important site during the slave trade.
From beach vacations to safaris with the big five or even a walk down history lane, almost no other African country holds the candle to Tanzania.
03 – South Africa
South Africa features diverse landscapes, from the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town to the vast savannas of Kruger National Park, home to the Big Five. Johannesburg, the largest city, is a dynamic urban center with a deep history, while Durban offers beautiful beaches.
This African country is also known for its wine regions, particularly around Stellenbosch, and a vibrant mix of African, Dutch, Indian, and Malay culinary influences. Historical sites like Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg provide deep insights into the nation’s past and its journey towards reconciliation and democracy.
From relaxing beaches to mindblowing safari experiences, South Africa is a top travel destination in Africa.
02 – Morocco
This Islamic country is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and is also extremely tourist-friendly, except in more remote areas where you might be extorted for directions if you don’t know your way around.
From the Sahara desert to the Atlas Mountains, down to the Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines, Morocco is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa. Cities like Marrakesh, Fez, and Casablanca take you into the historical lifestyle of the Morocco people alongside modern arts and designs.
Morocco’s historical sites include the ancient Roman ruins at Volubilis and the medieval city of Fez, which boasts one of the world’s oldest universities. The coastal city of Essaouira, known for its charming medina and historic ramparts, offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Additionally, Morocco’s vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Marrakesh International Film Festival and the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music, attract visitors from around the globe.
01 – Egypt
2023 Egypt recorded 14.9 million tourists, making it the most visited African country in 2023. But is it a decision these tourists came to regret? Being one of them, I’d say no.
The only people who haven’t heard of the pyramids of Giza and the people buried in them, but as fascinating as they are, Egypt offers more than that to tourists. From the Great Sphinx to the temples of Luxor and Karnak, the experience of visiting Egypt can be overwhelmingly fantastic.
As a tourist, you can explore these historic sites or take a boat cruise on the longest river, the River Nile.
Egypt is a popular destination and your first spot to consider if you are planning a trip to Africa. With a vacation to this tourist hub, almost nothing could go wrong.
Conclusion
If a visit to Africa is not on your to-do list for the year, this is all the sign you need to add it. Africa is just a continent waiting to be explored with some amazing landscapes and cultures you will forever remember.
If you’ve visited any African country, share your experience with us in the comment.
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