Africa is one of the world’s richest continents. It offers its visitors amazing historical architecture, great underwater diversity, rich culture, and abundant wildlife like nowhere else. So, in this post, I put together the 7 best places for first-timers to visit in Africa.
I have lived in Nigeria, in the Western part of Africa, for some years, so I understand the misconceptions and hesitations about Africa among first-time travelers. Among these are the news about political and security mayhem in some parts of the continent or issues of bad infrastructure and amenities.
All these were considered when choosing the right destinations for first-timers to Africa. I have selected these locations based on security, good infrastructure, and the availability of incredible tourist attractions.
Best Places to Visit in Africa for First-Timers
Here are the best destinations in Africa for first-time visitors.
1. Morocco
Best Places to Visit in Africa – Morocco | Getty Images
Located in the Northwest area of Africa, Morocco is one of the best places to visit in Africa for first-timers. There is something for every traveler in the country. Also, Morocco is a great place to visit all through the year, especially in December.
Visit the beautiful Moroccan coastline of Essaouira for kite surfing on the Atlantic. Then, head to Marrakech’s architectural wonders including Bahia Palace, Medersa Ben Youssef, and Koutoubia Mosque.
You can view incredible waterfalls from the Atlas Mountains in December. Also, shop in the local markets or “souks” for spices, textiles, and other local goods.
Enjoy the Moroccan dish, “Tagine,” – a selection of slow-cooked meat and fish and vegetables in a terracotta vessel. Like me, you can also try out Moroccan pastries like “msemen” and “baklava.”
Best Places to Visit in Morocco
For first-time travelers, the best places to visit in Morocco are:
- Essaouira
- Marrakech
2. Tunisia
Tunisia – Places to Visit in Africa for First-Timers
Although Tunisia is a small country in North Africa near the Mediterranean Coast, it has an incredible mix of European, Berber, and Arab influence, making it a perfect destination for first-timers. The best times to visit Tunisia are in Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November). The summer can be too hot for first-time visitors.
Come with your camera when you visit to snap beautiful photos in the Sahara of Chott El Djerid for beautiful photos, before heading to the picturesque Salt Lake.
Then, visit the ancient ruins of Carthage in Tunis and El Djem amphitheater – UNESCO World Heritage sites. The amphitheater is considered one of the best-preserved amphitheaters outside Italy. Afterward, you can cool down on the cleanest and finest Mediterranean beaches on Djerba Island.
In addition, Star Wars fans can visit the Berber, Matmata, and Mos Espa villages where the popular movie was filmed.
Best Places to Visit in Tunisia
These are the best places to visit in Tunisia:
- El Djem
- Djerba Island
- Tunis
- Kairouan
- Chot El Djerid
3. South Africa – Best Places to Visit in Africa for First-Timers
Perfect Destination for First-Timers – South Africa
South Africa is one of the best places to visit in Africa for first-timers because of its vibrant culture, nature, and rich history. You won’t have issues with language barriers because English is one of the main languages in the country. Traveling around the country is easy with a car. So you can rent a car or use ride-hailing services such as Uber or Bolt.
Drive around Johannesburg and visit Kruger National Park to watch wildlife. Hike the Table Mountain in Cape Town. You can also try the cable car to catch a bird’s view of the mountains. Visit Boulders Beach where you will see the colony of Penguins.
If you love surfing, then head to the coastal areas. Visit Port Elizabeth, Durban, and Jeffery’s Bay. I also recommend Camps Bay in Cape Town. The Bay has amazing attractions including a beach, spa at The Twelve Apostles, and theater.
Top Places to Visit in South Africa
Here are the must-visit places in South Africa:
- Johannesburg
- Cape Town
- Kruger National Park
- Boulder’s Beach
- Durban
4. Victoria Falls, Zambia & Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls
Considered one of the seven most natural marvels in the world, Victoria Falls is one of the best destinations for first-timers in Africa. This captivating sheet of falling water is nestled between Zambia and Zimbabwe. That’s why it’s among the top places to visit in Zimbabwe.
The Falls is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe offering visitors jaw-dropping views of the Zambezi River. Victoria Falls receives visitors all year round, so ensure to book in advance.
Enjoy bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls bridge. However, for a more memorable experience, take a Zambezi River Cruise to view some wildlife like Crocs and Hippos.
If you swim, then try swimming in the Devil’s Pool – a natural infinity pool by the Falls edge. Also, enjoy white-water rafting on the Zambezi River.
However, my best part is the chopper ride, giving great views of the Falls from the sky.
5. Tanzania – Best Place to Visit in Africa for First-Time Visitors
Popular Places to Visit in Africa – Tanzania
Tanzania is a very popular choice for first-timers in Africa. Because it is home to the vast Serengeti and the must-see Ngorongoro Crater. It is one of the ideal safari destinations to visit in Africa.
Most of the amazing attractions in Tanzania, including Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti are close to one another. This puts Tanzania among the best places to visit on a budget.
Booking a safari is also easy in Tanzania as there are many local tour operators available. Just ensure to read online reviews of each tour operator before you choose.
There are several incredibly fun things to do in Tanzania. Visit the Serengeti – home of the Big Five and watch wildlife animals in their habitat. Witness the great wildebeest migration. The best months to witness this migration are July to August. But you can still catch a bit of the move from September to October.
Take hot air balloon safari tours around the Serengeti to Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater. Plan a day visit to explore the Ngorongoro Crater. The crater was formed about 2 to 3 million years ago when a volcano exploded and collapsed on itself. Then, go for a hike on Mount Kilimanjaro, before cooling off on the beaches of Zanzibar Island. The Island is known to have one of the best warm beaches in the world.
Best Sites to Visit in Tanzania
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Zanzibar
- Serengeti National Park
- Tarangire National Park
- Mount Kilimanjaro
6. Namibia
The Flamingoes of Walvis Bay – Namibia
One of the safest destinations for first-timers in Africa is Namibia. The people are hospitable and you have easy access to the local markets.
Namibia is also a big country, so you should rent a vehicle to access remote areas easily. Meanwhile, the country boasts spectacular wildlife views and beautiful landscapes. Plus, there are many incredible places to visit in Namibia, making it perfect for first-time visitors to Africa
So, if this is your first time in Namibia, you shouldn’t miss the Namib’s Desert wild horses, the thousands of seals at Cape Cross Seal Reserve, and the flamingoes of Walvis Bay. That’s not all! Head to Etosha National Park to watch elephants, lions, and giraffes in their natural habitat.
For more exercise in the desert, I recommend you walk up Big Daddy, the tallest dune in the Sossusvlei area. You can also walk around the streets of Windhoek, Namibia’s capital. Visit the coastal town of Swakopmund to check out the German colonial-era architectural buildings.
Top Places to Visit in Namibia
- Etosha National Park
- Swakopmund
- Windhoek.
7. Mauritius – Best Places to Visit in Africa for First-Timers
Best Destination for First-Timers to Africa – Mauritius
Home to some of the best beaches in the world, Mauritius is an ideal destination for first-timers to Africa. The country is not very vast, so within five hours, you can drive around the island. The roads are good and there is less traffic, especially outside the capital, Port Louis. I recommend spending at least five days in this tropical paradise. In five days, you can visit the most popular beach towns in the country.
Start by taking a trip to Le Morne and enjoy the stunning beaches surrounded by endless palm trees. The Le Morne Brabant mountain is also a sight to behold. Then, venture to the laid-back Flic-en-Flac where you will find white-sand beaches backed with casuarina trees. Also, you can wander about the local markets of Port Louis before ending your adventure in the bustling Grand Baie.
Although the beaches are the major highlights of Mauritius, I also love the beautiful landscape.
Additionally, wander through the Roche Noire Lava Tubes formed by volcanic eruptions and see the dramatic 100-meter-tall Chamarel Waterfall.
Best Places to Visit in Mauritius
- Le Morne
- Flic-en-Flac
- Port Louis
- Grand Baie.
Final Thoughts
Here are my top recommendations for the best places to visit in Africa for first-timers. So, if you are a first-time visitor and have doubts about the best places to travel in Africa, I hope this guide helps you make the best choice.
very insightful article, thanks for sharing.
I am glad you found it insightful. Thank you.