5 Best African Travel Destinations

Africa is one of the best travel destinations in the world. In Africa, you get to enjoy crystal blue beaches, majestic wildlife, and a wealth of culture and history. Sounds very interesting for a beautiful vacation plan, right? So today, we will be taking a look at five of the best destinations in Africa for a blissful and exciting vacation. Let’s get into it then!

5. Seychelles

Seychelles is a perfect destination for a romantic escape or a wellness retreat, consisting of 115 islands located in the Indian Ocean. The outer islands, such as Alphonse and Desroches, offer breathtaking beaches and an abundance of wildlife. The island is an ideal place for those who seek a relaxing and natural atmosphere, where they can explore untouched coral reefs and diverse marine life, engage in fishing and sailing activities, and swim in crystal-clear waters.

The culture in Seychelles is rich and diverse, with its Creole, French, and English-speaking populations originating from Africa, Asia, and Europe. Each group has brought with it unique traditions, languages, and cuisines, which include delicious fish, spices, and tropical fruit.

4. Kenya

Kenya is the perfect destination for family holidays, safaris, and beach vacations, and the best time to visit is between October and March. If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, Lamu is a beautiful place to visit, where you can enjoy yoga retreats, stunning beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere. You can get to this island by taking a dhow ferry from Manda Island.

Malindi and Watamu are excellent places to explore the diversity of marine life nestled in coral reefs, while Lake Nakuru is perfect for bird-watching. Amboseli National Park offers a fantastic experience for wildlife enthusiasts and provides stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Culture and history enthusiasts can visit the Gede Ruins in Watamu to gain insight into the island’s heritage. Speaking some Swahili, which is Kenya’s official language, can be helpful in connecting with locals.

3. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar is a beautiful island paradise in Africa, offering crystal-clear waters and delicious cuisine. You can explore the variety of islands around the archipelago for a unique experience.

Pemba Island, located about 100 kilometres from Zanzibar, is Tanzania’s hidden gem. With fewer visitors than Zanzibar, it’s an excellent choice for a relaxing getaway. Pemba is known for its agriculture, particularly spice production. You can chat with locals to learn more about the island’s agriculture sector and abundant fruit and spice trees.

Diving in Pemba’s waters is a must-do activity, with healthy coral reefs and diverse marine life to explore. You can also enjoy a relaxing afternoon walking on white sandy shores and swimming in the Indian Ocean. The island’s lush beauty has earned it the nickname, “The Green Island.”

Pemba has a population of about 350,000 people, and you can explore the culture and heritage of the island by visiting the main town, Chake Chake. Locals are friendly and happy to interact, and you can strike up a conversation to learn more about their culture and heritage. It’s helpful to learn some Swahili, as it’s the primary language of the island. As you walk around, you’ll notice the unique architecture of square mud houses with thatched roofs. You can also enjoy the island’s fruits, which are sold by villagers from ox-drawn carts.

2. South Africa

South Africa is a versatile destination that caters to all types of travellers, from city getaways to safaris and beach vacations.

iSimangaliso Wetlands Park in KwaZulu-Natal is a must-visit destination, boasting Africa’s most extensive estuarine system. You can explore old coastal dunes and beaches that stretch to Kosi Bay on the Mozambican border while enjoying the natural beauty of the park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park in the Wild Coast is home to South Africa’s highest mountain range and another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Western Cape offers a wide range of activities, including the beautiful Garden Route, which features a variety of vegetation and authentic South African culture and cuisine. Cape Town is an excellent cosmopolitan destination, where you can immerse yourself in city life or take the Red Bus Tour to enjoy the sights. A visit to Robben Island will also give you insights into South Africa’s political history.

South Africa offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to backpacker hostels. When in the Wild Coast in KwaZulu-Natal, the Wild Coast Sun is a popular choice, with rooms starting at $158 per person per night. In the Western Cape, it’s best to stay in George and enjoy your stay at the Garden Villa Bed and Breakfast, with prices from $49.

1. Morocco

Morocco is a unique country that blends African and European cultures due to its proximity to Europe. Travellers often describe it as having a North African and European feel.

To experience authentic Moroccan culture, Djemma el Fna market in Marrakesh’s Medina quarter is a must-visit shopping destination. You can find everything from fashion to artwork and enjoy authentic Moroccan cuisine from the food stalls.

You can learn about Berber culture and history through a variety of available tours, including the Berber tour, a camel and desert tour that teaches you about Morocco’s nomadic populations. You can choose from single-day trips to 16-day excursions.

Visiting Ait Benhaddou is an excellent way to learn about traditional pre-Saharan life. It’s a fortified village located along a former caravan route near Marrakech, where you can see how ancient architects constructed houses within defensive walls. The village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Music lovers will enjoy the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music, a 10-day celebration taking place between May and June, where artists from around the world gather to celebrate Africa’s cultural beauty and diversity. Previous performers include Bjork and Ben Harper. No doubt, Africa offers beautiful natural scenery, unique cultures and warm people who will make your vacation one to remember.