Travel

Popular Places to Visit in Africa

Africa has many amazing countries and sites that are popular to visit. Let’s talk about some top spots people love to explore in Africa.

Egypt

Egypt in northern Africa has very famous places to see. The Great Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza are iconic. People can go inside pyramids and see mummies in tombs. The Egyptian Museum in Cairo has ancient artifacts like King Tut’s treasures.

Riding a boat down the Nile River allows seeing ruins and temples along the riverbanks. The temples at Abu Simbel were moved here when they built the Aswan Dam. The city Alexandria and Red Sea beach towns are also popular.

Morocco

Morocco in northern Africa has old cities with winding alleys called souks which are fun to wander through. The main city Marrakech has a huge central plaza called Djemaa El Fna with snake charmers, dancers, and vendors.

Morocco also has the High Atlas Mountains for hiking. The Sahara Desert stretches across eastern Morocco. Camel rides and camping in sand dunes are popular activities.

South Africa

At the southern tip of Africa is the country South Africa. The city Cape Town by Table Mountain provides beautiful scenery. The Cape Winelands have vineyards for wine tasting.

Kruger National Park offers safaris to see the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. South Africa also has nice beaches along the coasts.

Kenya

Kenya in East Africa are famous for safaris. The Maasai Mara have the Great Migration where over a million wildebeest and zebras move across the grasslands.

Tanzania

Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain, rises above the plains in Tanzania. Climbing to the top is an amazing experience. Off Tanzania’s coast, the island Zanzibar has beautiful beaches and historic Stone Town. Visit Serengeti for the migration of the wildebeest experience.

Activities and Attractions in Africa

Africa offers many amazing activities and sites for travelers to enjoy. Let’s discuss top attractions that people can experience across Africa’s different countries.

African Safaris

Going on safari to view wildlife is a very popular activity in Africa. Famous safari destinations include:

– The Serengeti in Tanzania – Over 2 million wildebeest and thousands of zebras and gazelles migrate across these plains each year.

– Kruger National Park in South Africa – Kruger covers 7,523 square miles and is home to the Big Five animals: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalo.

– Okavango Delta in Botswana – The lush delta has over 200,000 elephants and 400 bird species. Safari cruises go past hippos and crocodiles.

African Beach Destinations

With coastlines along the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, Africa has many beautiful beach destinations:

– Cape Town, South Africa – Cape Town has stunning beaches with Table Mountain backdrop.

– Zanzibar, Tanzania – Zanzibar has palm-lined white sand beaches and historic Stone Town.

– Seychelles – Located off East Africa, Seychelles has 115 islands with renowned beaches, like Anse Source D’Argent and Anse Lazio.

African Hiking and Outdoor Activities

Africa offers amazing hiking and outdoor adventures including:

– Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania – Climbing to the 19,341 ft summit is a bucket list trekking challenge.

– Atlas Mountains, Morocco – The High Atlas and Middle Atlas ranges have peaks over 13,000 feet for avid hikers.

– Table Mountain, South Africa – You can take a cable car ride or hike up this iconic flat-topped mountain rising over Cape Town.

African Cultural Sites and History

There are many cultural UNESCO World Heritage sites across Africa. Famous examples include:

– Pyramids of Giza, Egypt – The ancient pyramids are over 4,500 years old and one of Africa’s iconic sites.

– Rock-Hewn Churches, Ethiopia – These incredible churches were carved out of rock in the 12th century.

– Timbuktu, Mali – The historic city of Timbuktu was a center of ancient trade and scholarship.

– Stone Town, Zanzibar – Winding alleys and carved wooden doors mark this historic Swahili port city.

African Food and Drink

Africa has amazing cuisines and wines to try. Don’t miss:

– Cape Winelands, South Africa – Over 200 vineyards offer world-class wines from the region’s estates.

– Moroccan Cuisine – Spicy tagines, couscous dishes, and street foods like harira soup.

– Ethiopian Food – Injera bread is used to scoop up flavorful stews and curries.

African Lively Nightlife

Major cities like Johannesburg, Cairo, and Cape Town have exciting nightlife scenes with:

– Vibrant music and dance clubs – Experience local and international DJs and artists.

– Fun bars – Mix delicious cocktails and beers with laughter and conversation.

– Entertainment complexes – Enjoy bowling, movies, live theater, and more after dark.

Best Time To Visit Africa

South Africa – The warmest and driest months are November to February. Avoid rainy winter of June to August.
Kenya and Tanzania – It’s often sunniest from January to February and June to October. April and May can have heavy rains.
Egypt – The most comfortable weather is October to April. Summer from June to August is very hot.
Safari parks – Visit during the dry season when wildlife is easier to spot gathering at watering holes. Times vary across parks.

Health and Safety in Africa

Check required and recommended vaccinations at least 6 weeks before departure.
Hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever shots may be needed.
Bring any prescription medications and copies of prescriptions in your carry-on bag.
Pack over-the-counter meds too.
Protect against malaria. Take preventative tablets if going to high risk areas and use mosquito repellent.
Sleep under treated bed nets when camping.
Only drink sealed bottled water.
Avoid raw fruits/veggies unless you can peel them yourself.
Walk in well-lit areas at night and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or watches. Keep valuables secure.

Africa Hotels & Accommodation

Hotels – Range from affordable basic rooms to luxury resorts with spas and golf courses. Found in all major cities.
Lodges – Located inside national parks and game reserves. Offers sightings of wildlife outside your door!
Camping – A budget way to experience parks and nature. You’ll need a tent, sleeping bag, and other camping gear.
Hostels – Cheap lodging popular in backpacking centers. Dorm-style and private rooms have shared kitchens and lounges.
B&Bs – Smaller and family-run. Enjoy included breakfasts and personalized hospitality.

Getting Around Africa

Planes – Efficient for long distances between countries or cities. Allow time for layovers and delays.
Buses and vans – Affordable public transportation connecting towns and cities. Travel with others.
Rental cars – Convenient for exploring at your own pace if you can drive stick-shift. Get 4x4s for safaris.
Taxis – Good for short trips within a city. Agree on rates before getting in and follow your map.
Ride share apps – Available in bigger cities. Saves hassle of negotiating fares.
Trains – Available in some areas. Slow but scenic ways to travel overland.

What to Pack For African Travel

Sun protection – Pack hats, UV blocking clothes, strong sunscreen and sunglasses.
Mosquito prevention – Bring repellent, cover up with light long sleeves and trousers in the evenings.
Have tablets if traveling to malarial zones.
First aid kit – Include bandages, antiseptic cream, pain/fever reducers, antihistamine, diarrhea meds.
Travel documents – Have passport, visas, travel insurance paperwork, and copies of ID ready.
Cameras/binoculars – Capture memorable sights. Use neck straps and cases to keep secure.
Light, loose clothing – Protect yourself from heat and sun in breathable fabrics.
Have some warmer items for cool nights.

Cultural Etiquette When Visiting Africa

When you go to Africa, it helps to be thoughtful of local cultures and customs. Here are some tips on etiquette:

Greet People Politely

– Learn basic greetings like “Hello” in local languages. Use titles like Mr., Mrs., or Miss if known.

– Shake hands gently when introduced. Many cultures use the right hand only.

– Wait to be invited before entering homes. Remove shoes if the hosts do.

Show Respect

– Dress modestly when going to places like mosques, churches, temples, and shrines. Cover knees and shoulders.

– Receive items with your right hand as the left may be considered unclean.

– Be quiet and avoid media at solemn sites like memorials or ceremonies.

Ask First

– Always ask permission before photographing people, rituals, or inside sacred places.

– Do not pet, feed or touch animals without the handler’s instructions. Wild animals can be dangerous.

– Try a small portion when served specialty foods. It is polite to taste.

Interact Respectfully

– Avoid sensitive topics like politics or poverty when conversing.

– Be patient with language barriers. Keep a translation app handy or learn some phrases.

– Respect when told something cannot be photographed or a place is off limits.

– Follow all behaviour rules in communities, parks, sacred sites and households you visit.

Tip Locally Standard Amounts

– Tip tour guides, drivers and hotel staff normal local amounts. Ask your hosts.

– In restaurants, 10-15% tip is fair in most areas if service charge not included.

Following basic etiquette will help you experience local cultures respectfully and enjoy your Africa travels!

Experiencing African Culture and Communities

Visiting local communities is a great way to learn about African culture and life. Immersing yourself provides insight into traditions, values, and daily living. Here are suggestions for meaningful community experiences:

Visit Schools

– Learn about the education system and volunteer at schools if possible. Read books, sing songs, and play games with children.

– Donate requested supplies like books, sports equipment, or computers to support students.

– Ask questions about school life and challenges. Understand access to education helps future generations.

Stay in Community Tourism Sites

– Choose community-run lodges, B&Bs, ecotourism sites and cultural villages. Locals benefit from tourism income.

– Take village tours and learn about daily life, trade skills like art, music, cooking and craftwork.

– Hear folklore stories passed down. Watch and learn traditional song and dance.

– Purchase handicrafts directly from local artisans. Support their livelihoods.

Try Agriculture and Food Experiences

– Tour coffee or tea plantations or family farms. See cash crop or subsistence farming.

– Visit markets brimming with colorful fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices.

– Learn to cook popular dishes at local homes or food tours. Eat traditional meals with families.

Greet Community Members

– Exchange names and handshakes when meeting elders, chiefs, parents and kids.

– Respect dress norms that cover shoulders and knees in rural areas.

– Ask to photograph people and be prepared to put camera away if unwanted.

Joining Africa’s communities fosters international friendship and happy memories!

Responsible Tourism in Africa

Being a Responsible Tourist in Africa

When visiting Africa, we can make positive impacts through responsible tourism. Some tips:

Support Local Businesses

– Choose local tour companies, guides, drivers, hotels and restaurants. This helps local economies the most.

– Buy souvenirs directly from artisans and small shops at fair prices. Support handicraft traditions.

– Eat traditional cuisine at community eateries. Try dishes that support regional agriculture.

Preserve Nature

– When on safari, respect rules of parks and reserves. No littering or feeding/bothering wildlife.

– Stay on trails to avoid trampling plants and ecosystems. Take only photos.

– Choose eco-friendly lodges with sustainable practices like solar power and rainwater harvesting.

Save Resources

– Conserve water and electricity during hotel stays and camping. Report leaks.

– Refuse single-use plastic straws, bags and packaging when possible. Carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag.

– Don’t take more brochures, maps, or samples than needed. Decline receipt paper to save paper.

Support Fair Treatment

– Purchase items directly from source to ensure fair pay for workers and artists.

– Stay at accommodations that treat staff equitably with fair wages and good working conditions.

– Speak up firmly if witnessing exploitation, discrimination or corruption. Report unethical behavior.

We can have the best Africa travels by being mindful tourists who make positive impacts!