Africa is the earliest inhabited continent, and within it lies historic monuments, archeological sites, and other must-see locations.
Looking for travel destinations you can add to your list this year? Perhaps Africa might entice you! It boasts a tapestry of natural wonders and vibrant cultures, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. It is often referred to as the Mother Continent due to the fact that it is the earliest inhabited continent on earth, according to National Geographic. Vacationers get to experience lush rainforests, terrains brimming with breathtaking sceneries, and pulsating wildlife.
Visiting Africa will promise a journey filled with adventure and discovery. With the perfect blend of history, culture, and nature, it deserves to be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Every May 25th, World Africa Day has been observed annually since 1963, marking the formation of the African Union. It serves as a reminder of its vibrant spirit and contributions to the global community. In honor of this celebration, here are some must-visit locations across the globe’s second largest continent.
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Vacationing in idyllic Mauritius
The island of Mauritius sits off the east coast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean. It is known for its long, sandy beaches, coral blue waters, and palm fronds. Euronews reported the island encompasses the lush slopes of La Morne Mountain. The Black River Gorges National Park also complements the location’s appeal.
Mauritius has over 200 variations of palm trees and an extensive list of captivating floras. Scuba diving, e-biking, kite surfing, and hiking are activities available for those seeking a little more of an adventure. However, the island’s most anticipated activity is the helicopter flight over the “underwater waterfall,” an optical illusion on its southwest coast.
Foodies get to indulge in the local cuisine of Mauritius upon visiting. Traditional meals include a blend of Creole, French, and Indian-influenced dishes. Seafood is a staple in the island, with fresh catches available daily along the coast.
Mauritius is one of Africa’s attractive destinations due to its pleasant weather. It is a top choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Check Mauritius Tourism’s website for activities and places to explore within its regions, and this guide for nearby luxe stays.
Kenya’s vibrant wildlife
If you love all kinds of animals, wild or tame, Kenya will be an ideal destination to add to your Africa travel bucket list. It is renowned for its safari packages, offering wildlife experiences in places like Masai Mara and Amboseli.
Kenya, aside from its vigorous fauna, also highlights its breathtaking landscapes, pleasant climate, and friendly locals, making it a must-visit destination in Africa.
Visitors can enjoy various activities such as hot air balloon safaris, traditional Maasai village visits, guided nature walks, and more. The country is home to 390 mammal species and 1,100 bird species as per Kenya’s tourism website.
Known tourist attractions across the country are: Maasai Mara National Reserve, Nairobi National Park, Uhuru Gardens, Lake Nakuru National Park, Diani Beach, and Mount Kenya, among others.
Travelers won’t have trouble finding splendid stays in the country. Kenya has upscale campsites, lodges, hideaways, and villas that combine opulence and living among nature. Check this guide for more information on the top resorts or hotels.
Visit historic Egypt
Egypt is not one you want to miss upon visiting Africa, as it is the cradle of ancient civilization, nesting art, temples, and historic attractions. Aside from its rich threshold of archives, the cultural allure of the country radiates from its immaculate handicrafts, its locals, and unforgettable itineraries. Egypt even has stretches of beaches, serving as a magnet that attracts sun and water lovers.
Egypt’s Cairo and Giza encompasses world heritage sites like the pyramids in Giza, Saqqara, and Dashur; Memphis and its necropolises; and the Giza Plateau, home to the Great Pyramid (Khufu) and the Sphinx. Temples paying homage to gods Amun and Hatshepsut may also be visited, as well as the Valleys of Kings and Queens to see the tombs and paintings of ancient pharaohs. Check the rest of Egypt’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites here.
Egypt has more to offer than early civilization sites and beaches, as the country also highlights their health and wellness activities. Travelers will experience alternative medical practices such as aromatherapy and reflexology. Luxury spas, yoga and nature retreats, fitness centers, and therapeutic treatments also populate each region.
The Red Sea, also a renowned spot in Egypt, is famous for its 35 percent saline water. Swimming isn’t just fun as it comes with health benefits, too.
Egypt casts its own spell to become memorable to every vacationer. It never fails to radiate history, culture, art, religion, and nature.
Explore this link for other tourist spots, museums, and must-visit destinations, and this site for indulgent, luxury stays.
Malawi, the warm heart of Africa
Wander to Malawi, a country known as the “warm heart of Africa.” The small but beautiful country offers lakes, gorgeous sights, sprightly floras and faunas, its friendly locals, and pulsating culture. It is regaining its pre-pandemic tourism momentum and was recently recognized as one of Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel Top Countries for 2022.
The compact African nation is segmented into three regions: North, Central, and South. Each area boasts a unique selection of stunning destinations, including Chintheche in the north, Senga Bay in the central region, and Mount Mulanje in the south.
Tour plans include viewing wildlife reserves, hiking or trekking high peaks to low valleys, and cultural encounters with the locals. However, one of the country’s gems is Lake Malawi, where vacationers can swim or do water activities. Leisure pursuits like golf, spas, and yoga retreats are available in Malawi, too.
Check their tourism website for other activities, visit-worthy places, and this link for the country’s best hotels.
Visit Cape Town, a city surrounded by nature
Cape Town is a modern, cosmopolitan city and is one of South Africa’s major ports and industrial centers. It is surrounded by nature, with its backdrop being Table Mountain, which is one of the new 7 Wonders of the World.
The city rose to prominence due to its beautiful beaches, biodiversity, award-winning food and wine, and a variety of experiences on offer.
Cape Town has a “Big Six,” which lists the country’s top tourist attractions, which includes the aforementioned mountain with captivating hiking trails and is accessible via cable car. Other landmarks of interest include Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned; Groot Constantia, South Africa’s oldest wine estate; Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden; Cape Point Nature Reserve; and the V&A Waterfront, where there are shops, restaurants, and events.
Things to do at Cape Town include cruising, surfing, scuba diving, a no-judgments spin studio, visiting galleries, and more.
Check Cape Town’s tourism website for more information, and this guide for the best hotels in the country.
Banner photo from Xavier Coiffic via Unsplash.
