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Finding the best country to visit in Africa isn’t always easy, as this vast continent is full of amazing wildlife, magnificent landscapes, and outdoor adventure. Where else can you see wild elephants, the ancient wonders of the pyramids, and the world’s largest waterfall?
There’s no denying that Africa is home to some of the most impressive places on the planet. However, choosing exactly where to go is pretty challenging. You want adventure and natural beauty, but you also want to go to a safe African country.
Don’t worry; I’ll share the 15 best places to visit in Africa so you can plan the ultimate getaway, whether you’re traveling with friends, as a couple, or for a family vacation.
Before we begin, I want to remind you that having travel insurance is of the utmost importance, especially in Africa. The continent is known for its wild animals, rugged landscapes, and unique cuisines, all of which can pose unexpected challenges during your trip. With a policy from one of the best travel insurance companies, you can travel with complete confidence, knowing that you’re protected against these potential risks.
Now, let’s jump into the top travel destinations in Africa!
1. Egypt, one of the overall best African countries to visit
Egypt links Northeast Africa to the Middle East, with its eastern edge bordering the Red Sea. The country is full of incredible monuments testifying to the area’s rich history and culture.
For example, the Great Pyramid of Giza is the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World. It’s accompanied by the Pyramid of Menkaure, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Great Sphinx of Giza, which has a lion’s body and a human head said to depict Pharoh Khafre. On this day tour, you can explore the Pyramids of Giza, Sakkara and Memphis.
The Nile River runs through Egypt, offering another beautiful place in Africa to explore. The best way to see the river is by taking a cruise like this one, which includes dinner and tanoura (Egyptian folk dance) performers.
1. Egypt, one of the overall best African countries to visit
The Nile River runs through the Egyptian capital of Cairo, which is well worth a visit. In addition to the Giza Pyramids Complex, Cairo is home to incredible museums and mosques. From here, you can take a day trip to see another travel destination in Africa: the city of Alexandria. This tour includes lunch and a visit to the famous Library of Alexandria, old theaters, catacombs, and citadels.
I also recommend spending time in Luxor, where the ancient city of Thebes once stood. On this day trip from Hurghada, you can visit the Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, and the royal tombs in the Valley of Kings.
You can even visit the beach in Egypt. Sharm El Sheikh has white sand beaches and beautiful coral reefs, while Hurghada offers opportunities to swim in the Red Sea. If you’re interested, I recommend this diving excursion, which includes the option to obtain PADI certification.
As you can see, there is plenty to do in Egypt, so if you prefer a vacation package, I suggest this 9-day tour that includes all the must-see attractions. Also, don’t forget to buy one of the best Egyptian SIM cards so you can access the Internet in Egypt and stay connected with family and friends.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Marriott Mena House (Cairo)
- Elite Pyramids Boutique Hotel (Giza)
- Steigenberger Aldau Beach Hotel (Hurghada)
2. Kenya, the best country to visit in Africa for safari
Thanks to its wealth of activities and attractions, Kenya is one of the best places for first-timers to visit in Africa. The country straddles the equator, so rather than 4 seasons, it has dry seasons (December-March, July-October) and rainy seasons (April-June, November-December).
Kenya’s national parks are one-of-a-kind, offering plenty of opportunities for eco-tourism, wildlife spotting, and nature activities. Maasai Mara National Reserve is in the southwest, near the Tanzania border, and has the country’s highest concentration of wildlife. In addition to the annual wildebeest migration, you can see cheetahs, elephants, hippos, leopards, lions, rhinos, and zebras.
Hell’s Gate National Park is known for its imposing cliffs and recreational activities, like hiking, rock climbing, and biking. Meanwhile, Lake Nakuru National Park is home to its namesake lake, inhabited by pink flamingos and rhinos.
2. Kenya, the best country to visit in Africa for safari
Of course, most people come to Kenya because it’s the best country to visit in Africa for safari tours. Some of the most recommended places to go on safari in Kenya are Nairobi National Park, the Mara Triangle in Maasai Mara, and Mount Kenya National Park. If you don’t want to do so much planning, consider this 8-day safari package that starts and ends in Nairobi.
Speaking of which, it’s worth spending some time in Nairobi. The capital city is also known as Kenya’s cultural and economic center, boasting restaurants, shops, nightlife, and institutions like the National Museum of Kenya.
Finally, Kenya has a beautiful coastline along the Indian Sea. In addition to the mangroves, forests, and ruins, you can visit Diani Beach, considered the best beach in Africa.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Ziwa Bush Lodge (Nakuru)
- The Sands at Chale Island (Chale Island)
- Ololo Safari Lodge (Nairobi)
- Olare Mara Kempinski (Maasai Mara)
3. Morocco, one of the best places to visit in Africa as a couple
With its famous blue houses and colorful markets, Morocco is one of the most aesthetically pleasing countries in Africa. In addition to its sights, tastes, and aromas, it has attractions that appeal to all types of travelers.
First, the capital city of Marrakesh has a little bit of everything, from mosques and palaces to gardens and bustling marketplaces. You can even pamper yourself with an indulgent hammam experience. Of course, you must see Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the 12th-century Bab Agnaou gate, and the ancient gardens of Menara or Majorelle. Marrakesh is also home to historic palaces and tombs that you must see for yourself.
In the port city of Casablanca, you’ll find the stunning Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, with its intricate architecture and breathtaking ocean views. The cultural capital of Fez is home to some of the world’s oldest schools, such as the University of Al Quaraouiyine and Bou Inania Madrasa. You can also take this day trip from Casablanca to Chefchaouen, known as the “Blue City.”
3. Morocco, one of the best places to visit in Africa as a couple
Morocco also has incredible natural spaces that make it one of the most visited African countries. A couple of hours east of Marrakesh, the Ouzoud Falls stand 350 feet tall and consist of three sections. This day tour from the capital takes you on a guided hike to see the waterfalls and all the highlights.
There is also this 3-day excursion from Marrakesh through the Sahara Desert. Along the way, you’ll visit the village of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the dunes of Erg Chebbi, Merzouga, and the city of Ouarzazate, known as the “Door to the Desert.”
If you prefer, you can take this hiking excursion in the Atlas Mountains. And if you can’t decide, I suggest this 10-day vacation package that includes Marrakesh, Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Fez, and Merzouga.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech (Marrakech)
- Casablanca Le Lido Thalasso & Spa (Casablanca)
- Fes Marriott Hotel Jnan Palace (Fez)
4. Namibia, the best African country to visit for nature lovers
Namibia is one of the best countries to visit in southern Africa for those who want to get off the beaten path. It’s also a photographer’s dream, thanks to its national parks, canyons, giant boulders, and ancient rock art.
For starters, check out the capital of Windhoek, which has an interesting blend of African and German influences. Then, head southwest toward Sossusvlei, home to Namib-Naukluft National Park. As part of the Namib Sand Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts towering, fiery red dunes.
Further south, the Fish River Canyon is one of the most famous canyons in Africa and the second-largest in the world, measuring 100 miles long, 17 miles wide, and 1,805 feet deep. The ravine and outcroppings are great for hiking, camping, and spotting animals like springbok.
4. Namibia, the best African country to visit for nature lovers
Toward the northern part of the country, Spitzkoppe is another cool place to camp. This desert area has granite peaks that are over 120 million years old, so you can get breathtaking views here. Its giant boulders make it a hotspot for rock climbing. Twyfelfontein is another impressive place to visit in Africa. It was Namibia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and consists of ancient rock art and engravings from the Stone Age.
Finally, Etosha National Park is a highlight of any trip to Namibia. This vast park is full of attractions, such as a 1,850-square-mile salt pan, viewing decks, campsites, and wildlife. Over 114 mammal and 340 bird species live here, so you’ll find everything from flamingos and elephants to lions and rhinos.
If you want to explore Namibia on your own, this 13-day camping safari is a great way to see all the highlights. It starts and ends in Windhoek and visits Namib-Naukluft National Park, Sossusvlei, Etosha National Park, and more.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Hilton Windhoek (Windhoek)
- Dead Valley Lodge (Sesriem)
- Toshari Lodge (Okaukuejo)
5. South Africa, one of the best countries in Africa to visit for culture
South Africa is one of the best places to vacation in Africa, so it’s worth taking the long journey here. A good place to start your adventure is in the capital of Cape Town, a city full of stunning vistas, a bustling harbor, and historical landmarks.
Cape Town is one of the best African cities to visit, not only for its attractions but also because it’s close to several other points of interest. For example, just 30 miles east, you’ll find the Cape Dutch architecture and vineyards of Stellenbosch. About 2.5 hours northeast of Cape Town, the Inverdoorn Game Reserve is where you can see the Big 5: buffalo, elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinos.
An hour south of Cape Town, the Cape of Good Hope awaits with its scenic views. The shoreline here includes Boulder Beach, where African penguins are often found. You can take a day tour of both areas from Cape Town. If you prefer something more adventurous, check out this shark cage diving cruise in Hermanus or this seal snorkeling excursion in Hout Bay.
5. South Africa, one of the best countries in Africa to visit for culture
There is also Robben Island, located 7.5 miles off the coast of Cape Town. You can take the ferry from the capital to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a stark reminder of apartheid in South Africa. The Robben Island Museum is a living history museum and former prison where Nelson Mandela served 18 of his 27-year sentence.
Besides Cape Town, I recommend visiting the cultural hub of Johannesburg. After enjoying its sights, take this full-day safari to Pilanesberg National Park. Alternatively, this excursion to Addo Elephant National Park and this day tour to Kruger National Park are sure to please.
Finally, the coastal city of Durban is full of surfing, museums, sports, and natural spaces.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton (Johannesburg)
- The Table Bay Hotel (Cape Town)
- The Oyster Box (Durban)
6. Tanzania, the best place to visit in Africa to see animals
Tanzania is a haven for animal lovers since you can see various wild species here. As one of the best places to go in Africa for safari, Tanzania has several incredible national parks and conservation areas full of cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, leopards, lions, wildebeest, zebras, and more.
If you want to go wildlife spotting, you have plenty of options, such as this 6-day safari or this 8-day safari. These excursions go through the amazing landscapes of Arusha National Park, Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara National Park, and the Materuni Waterfalls.
6. Tanzania, the best place to visit in Africa to see animals
In addition to safari tours, you can visit Mount Kilimanjaro, one of Tanzania’s highlights. This dormant volcano is Africa’s tallest mountain, offering ample trekking and camping opportunities. Climbing Kilimanjaro is quite an adventure, but if you’re up for it, consider this 10-day climb along the Lemosho Route or this 8-day hike on the Rongai Route.
Finally, take advantage of your trip to see Zanzibar, one of the best African islands to visit. Zanzibar is located 50 miles off the eastern coast of Tanzania. While you can visit on your own, I recommend booking a safari that includes the mainland’s top attractions and the island. For example, this 12-day package starts in Arusha, goes to several national parks, and wraps up in Stone Town, Zanzibar.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Melia Zanzibar (Kiwengwa, Zanzibar)
- The Residence Zanzibar (Kizimkazi, Zanzibar)
- Mizingani Seafront Hotel (Stone Town, Zanzibar)
- Arusha Africa Safari (Arusha)
7. Botswana, one of the best countries in Africa to visit for outdoor enthusiasts
Botswana is another beautiful place in Africa, and it’s perfect for those who love spending time outdoors. Most of Botswana’s attractions are concentrated in the northern part of the country. However, if you’re flying into the capital city of Gaborone in the south, you can explore its shops and museums, as well as the Mokolodi Nature Reserve, which has vulnerable species like the southern white rhinoceros.
Chobe National Park is another place to see wild animals in Botswana. The biodiversity here is unmatched and includes lions, elephants, zebras, impalas, African buffalo, kudus, giraffes, and more. You can also do some excellent bird-watching here, so keep your eyes peeled for African darters, lilac-breasted rollers, African skimmers, and Goliath herons.
About 215 miles south of Chobe, you’ll find Jack’s Camp, a luxury safari camp. While some of the glamping tents are a bit over the top, the standout feature is the variety of wildlife, including meerkats, hyenas, lions, aardvarks, honey badgers, and bat-eared foxes.
7. Botswana, one of the best countries in Africa to visit for outdoor enthusiasts
Also, if you’re passionate about photography like us, you’ll love the Okavango Delta region. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, full of wetlands, lagoons, salt islands, and a wide array of wildlife and bird species. This 7-day safari goes through Okavango and Chobe National Park, while this 10-day excursion starts in Johannesburg and goes through Okavango and Chobe, ending at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. This 14-day safari goes through Botswana’s top parks and reserves.
Finally, if you’re going to be in the country’s southern region, you can appreciate the Khoisan, or Bushmen, of Botswana. This indigenous hunter-gatherer community dates back over 10,000 years and is known for its unique clicking language.
- Recommended accommodations:
- The Waterfront (Maun)
- Waterside Cottages (Gaborone)
- Mankwe Camping (Chiro Pan)
- Omogolo Hideaways (South Okavango)
- Mababe River Lodge & Campsite (Mababe)
8. Ethiopia, the best country to visit in Africa for food and culture
If you’re looking for places to visit in Africa, don’t overlook Ethiopia. This interesting country has parks, historical monuments, religious structures, and World Heritage Sites. A good place to begin your adventure is in the capital, Addis Ababa, where you can take a sightseeing tour or market tour to enjoy culinary delights and Ethiopian coffee.
Ethiopia’s smaller towns offer plenty of things to do, too. Aksum holds great religious significance and is home to ancient ruins, obelisks, and churches. Gondar is known for its fortress of the Fasil Ghebbi royal palace, while Harar is an old walled city with holy relics and ancient gates. There is also Lalibela, a beautiful African city dating back to around the 11th century. Here, you can see the famous churches carved out of the rock.
8. Ethiopia, the best country to visit in Africa for food and culture
One of the most impressive areas of Ethiopia is the Danakil Depression, a geological formation caused by continental drift. It’s said to be the hottest place on Earth, home to lava lakes, salt lakes, acidic hot springs, and volcanoes.
I must also mention Simien Mountains National Park, where you can witness the highest point in Ethiopia and endangered species like the walia ibex, the gelada baboon, and the bearded vulture. This full-day hiking tour takes you along one of the scenic mountain paths.
If you’re having trouble deciding what to do, consider this day trip from Addis Ababa. It includes a bit of everything: religious architecture, ancient sites, natural structures, breathtaking vistas, and wildlife.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Golden Tulip Addis Ababa (Addis Ababa)
- Best Western Plus Addis Ababa (Addis Ababa)
- Gondar Hills Resort (Gondar)
9. The Seychelles, the best African island country to visit
The Seychelles is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean located about 1,100 miles off the east-central coast of Africa. This country consists of 115 individual islands, most of which are uninhabited. Some of the most visited islands are Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.
Mahé is one of the best African islands to visit and the largest island of Seychelles. It’s home to the capital city, Victoria, and lovely white sand beaches. You can take this day tour to explore Victoria’s Creole architecture, markets, and botanical gardens, followed by the beach of Anse Intendance. I also recommend this boat excursion from Mahé to St. Anne National Marine Park.
It’s also worth visiting Praslin, Seychelles’ second-largest island. Here, you can see the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with giant coco-de-mer palm trees and endemic birds, reptiles, and insects. Anse Lazio is one of the most beautiful beaches on Praslin, and you can take this excursion to see both the beach and the nature reserve in one day.
9. The Seychelles, the best African island country to visit
From Praslin, you can hop on a boat to see Curieuse and St. Pierre, two smaller nearby islands with natural scenery, wildlife, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. On Curieuse, you can see the critically endangered Seychelles giant tortoises at Curieuse Marine National Park. I recommend this day trip from Praslin, which includes hotel pick-up and lunch.
Finally, La Digue has a relaxing atmosphere, striking granite boulders, and breathtaking beaches like Anse Source d’Argent and Grand Anse. The island’s laid-back environment and recreational activities, like hiking and watersports, make it perfect for a romantic getaway.
Overall, the Seychelles is one of the best countries to visit for couples, perhaps for a honeymoon. I suggest spending at least a week here, but ideally two.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Constance Lemuria Resort (Grand’Anse, La Digue)
- Kempinski Seychelles Resort (Baie Lazare Mahé)
- Savoy Hotel & Spa (Beau Vallon, Mahé)
10. Rwanda, one of the best places to visit in Africa for gorilla trekking
Thanks to its location in the Great Rift Valley, Rwanda is known as the Land of a Thousand Hills. It’s without a doubt one of the prettiest places in Africa and generally safe for tourists.
Most people begin their journey in the capital city of Kigali, which is surrounded by rolling hills. This sightseeing tour is a great way to get to know the city’s food, culture, history, and architecture. You can embark on different excursions from Kigali, such as this safari to Akagera National Park. Akagera is home to the Big 5 (buffalo, elephants, leopards, lions, rhinos) and a variety of big cats like cheetahs. You can also take this gorilla-trekking excursion from Kigali to Mghahinga National Park in Uganda or this 5-day safari.
Rwandans are very respectful of wild animals, so gorilla trekking, bird watching, and safaris are popular here. In addition to Akagera, the Nyungwe Forest and Gishwati-Mukura National Park are worth checking out. The former boasts rainforests and wetlands full of primate species like chimps, golden monkeys, and baboons, while the latter contains a variety of flora, primates, birds, and reptiles.
10. Rwanda, one of the best places to visit in Africa for gorilla trekking
For a change of scenery, head to the Virunga Mountains, a chain of volcanoes partly in northcentral Rwanda. Volcanoes National Park sits within this volcanic mountain chain, offering unique trekking opportunities and the chance to spot gorillas in the wild.
Also, despite being landlocked, you can still go to the beach in Rwanda. Lake Kivu straddles the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and along the shores of the lake, you can visit the beaches of Gisenyi.
To the south, Nyanza was the old capital of Rwanda and still has a traditional umwami palace.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Kigali Marriott Hotel (Kigali)
- Radisson Blu Hotel & Conference Centre (Kigali)
- Hotel des Mille Collines (Kigali)
11. Uganda, the best African country to visit for an unforgettable experience
Crossing over the northern border of Rwanda, you can explore Uganda‘s landscapes and scenery. The southwestern edge of Uganda has a string of national parks, including Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth, Rwenzori Mountains, Kibale, and Semuliki.
Another gorgeous spot is Lake Mburo National Park, one of the best places to visit in Africa for wildlife. Here, you can see giraffes, hippos, hyenas, impalas, leopards, lions, warthogs, and zebras. This 2-day safari from the capital of Kampala takes you through the park’s savannah and includes overnight accommodation and meals. Uganda is also a hotspot for gorilla trekking, specifically in Bwindi, Mgahinga National Park, and the Virunga Mountains.
11. Uganda, the best African country to visit for an unforgettable experience
Traveling in the opposite direction, this day trip to Jinja introduces you to Lake Victoria, the original source of the Nile River. If you cruise along the Victoria Nile, you’ll find several waterfalls, including Busowoko Falls and Itanda Falls. Entebbe is another town on the shores of Lake Victoria. It’s about 30 miles south of Kampala and has interesting attractions like botanical gardens, a wildlife education center, and Lido Beach.
In the north of Uganda, you can enjoy a river cruise in Murchison Falls National Park. Here, the Victoria Nile flows through a narrow gap, creating the Murchison Falls. It’s all a lot to take in, so it’s better to tour this country with a package. I like this 10-day excursion that gives you plenty of time for gorilla trekking and hiking, but if you’re short on time, this 3-day tour is a good alternative.
- Recommended accommodations:
- K Hotels Entebbe (Entebbe)
- Bwindi Forest Lodge (Buhoma)
- Lemala Wildwaters Lodge (Kangulumira)
12. Zambia, one of the best countries to visit in Africa for active travelers
Zambia is one of the most beautiful parts of Africa, full of natural wonders, abundant wildlife, and gorgeous landscapes. Plus, it’s a safe country, so your trip here can be as relaxing or thrilling as you want.
Most tourists fly into Lusaka, the country’s capital, or Livingstone, a city on the southern border. If I had to choose one, I’d go with Livingstone since it’s where you can see the majestic Victoria Falls. The falls are the largest worldwide, measuring 5,600 feet across and 350 feet high. The best way to experience them is by taking a tour like this one from Livingstone or this helicopter flight over the falls.
Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River, another popular attraction where you can go whitewater rafting or take a relaxing cruise. Another option is visiting Lower Zambezi National Park to enjoy a nature walk, river cruise, or safari. While it’s not a Big 5 park, you can spot crocodiles, hippos, lions, waterbucks, and various bird species.
12. Zambia, one of the best countries to visit in Africa for active travelers
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Victoria Falls also includes Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, an area of forests, grassland, and woodland. To make the most of your time, I recommend this guided nature walk to see a vast array of plant and animal life.
Further inland, Kafue National Park is the largest and most biodiverse park in Zambia. Among the wildlife here are 21 species of antelope, thousands of elephants, and a hefty population of cheetahs and leopards. You can also see more unique species here, like aardvarks, bush babies, mongooses, otters, and pangolins.
To the east, South Luangwa National Park is one of the best places to visit in Africa for walking safaris. The park has large populations of buffalo, elephants, and giraffes, as well as lagoons and rivers full of crocodiles and hippos.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Msandile River Lodge (Kakumbi)
- Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort (Livingstone)
- Twangale Park Hotel (Lusaka)
13. Tunisia, the best place to visit in Africa for history buffs
Tunisia is one of the best north African countries to visit, especially if you’re interested in history and culture. Many of its tourist attractions are concentrated in the north of the country. For example, the capital city of Tunis is a bustling metropolis where you can get lost among the traditional markets, mosques, and museums. The Medina of Tunis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a historic district with hundreds of monuments, palaces, and religious structures from the Almohad Empire.
From Tunis, you can take a day tour of the ancient city of Carthage. Founded in 814 B.C. by the Phoenicians, it’s known for its ruins, monuments, and the charming blue-and-white town of Sidi Bou Said.
If you’re up for a more extended adventure, it’s worth taking this excursion to Kairouan. This city is a center of Islamic culture, boasting the Great Mosque of Kairouan and the Aghlabid Basins, which date back to the 9th century. This day trip also includes the Amphitheatre of El Jem, built in 238 A.D. and recognized by UNESCO.
13. Tunisia, the best place to visit in Africa for history buffs
Alternatively, consider this full-day tour from Tunis to Sousse and Monastir, two neighboring cities along the Gulf of Hammamet. Sousse has a walled medina with Islamic architecture like a ribat (castle), a casbah (fortress), and souks (covered bazaars). Monastir is nice for visiting the beach, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying the nightlife.
I also recommend visiting Djerba, an island off the southern coast of Tunisia. This half-day tour covers the highlights, but if you have time, consider this overnight safari in the desert. Djerba is also a great base from which to visit Ksar Ghilane, a desert oasis on the mainland. This excursion leaves from Djerba and goes to the Ksar Ghilane hot springs and a traditional Berber village.
- Recommended accommodations:
- The Residence Tunis (Gammarth)
- Iberostar Averroes (Hammamet)
- Iberostar Mehari Djerba (Taguermess)
- La Cigale Tabarka (Tibarka)
14. Zimbabwe, one of the best countries to visit in Africa as a family
Zimbabwe is another one of the best countries to visit in southern Africa. This small, landlocked nation offers lots to see and do, so it’s a place that the whole family will love traveling to.
First, you can’t miss a stop at Victoria Falls. Located in the westernmost corner of Zimbabwe, the falls extend into neighboring Zambia, another popular African destination. Hands down, one of the most remarkable ways to see Victoria Falls is from above. This excursion includes a helicopter flight and a walking tour, so you get the best views.
There are also some fantastic day trips and tours from Victoria Falls, such as this sunset dinner cruise and this excursion to Chobe National Park in neighboring Botswana. Of course, Zimbabwe has its own parks and natural spaces that you’ll love. Hwange National Park is just 70 miles south of Victoria Falls and is home to Zimbabwe’s most vulnerable animals.
14. Zimbabwe, one of the best countries to visit in Africa as a family
Continuing along the border, Lake Kariba offers wildlife safaris and cruises. Further north, Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the wildest and best-preserved areas in the world, with large populations of buffalo, crocodiles, elephants, hippos, and zebras.
In addition to wildlife, Zimbabwe has a rich culture and history, which you can learn about on this tour. The excursion includes a visit to a traditional Zimbabwean village to get a glimpse of rural life, rituals, customs, and living quarters.
Finally, this country’s rock formations and ancient cave art are fascinating. I recommend visiting the balancing rocks at Matobo National Park, the medieval walls of the Great Zimbabwe National Monument, and the rugged cliffs of Gonarezhou National Park.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Victoria Falls Safari Lodge (Victoria Falls)
- Gwango Heritage Resort (Dete)
- Holiday Inn Bulawayo (Bulawayo)
15. Malawi, another one of the best African countries to visit
Last but not least, Malawi is a small, narrow country nestled in southeast Africa. Nearly half of the country is consumed by Lake Malawi, an impressive body of water and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most of the fish species here are endemic, and the natural beauty surrounding the lake is unmatched. Here, you can admire the clear waters, green hills, and wildlife. For an eco-tourism adventure, you can even stay on Mumbo Island, a small private island on the lake.
Along the central-west coast of Lake Malawi, Nkhata Bay is a port city offering a tropical respite for tourists. About 30 miles west, Mzuzu is a melting pot of culture and recreation, particularly in Nyika National Park.
15. Malawi, another one of the best African countries to visit
Another notable city is the capital of Lilongwe, where you can shop and go sightseeing among the religious monuments and nearby natural areas. Further south, Liwonde National Park is known as one of the best places to see wild elephants. You can also see antelope, baboons, black rhinos, cheetahs, hippos, impalas, monkeys, and nearly 400 species of birds.
There is also Majete Wildlife Reserve, a protected area where you can see the Big 5 (buffalo, elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinos), and thousands of other mammals, reptiles, and bird species. Plus, the park’s natural landscapes, such as the savannah, woodland, and forests, are lovely.
If you don’t want to burden yourself with planning an itinerary, consider this 16-day vacation package through Malawi and Zambia. It includes visits to Liwonde National Park, Lake Malawi, Lake Kariba, Victoria Falls, and more.
- Recommended accommodations:
- Amaryllis Hotel Blantyre (Blantyre)
- Latitude 13 Degrees (Lilongwe)
- Sogecoa Golden Peacock (Lilongwe)
With that, you know the best places to visit in Africa! I hope this guide helps you narrow down your options and plan the ultimate African vacation. Here is a map with all 15 countries I mentioned so you can get a better idea of their locations:
Also, travel advisories and unforeseen events crop up, so I recommend getting travel insurance with Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage. You may also like our guide on travel Internet, which can help you stay connected while adventuring abroad.
If you still have questions, feel free to leave a comment below. I’d be happy to help you decide where to go for your trip to Africa.
Safe travels!
