Africa

What are the most recommended things to do in Africa?

  • Explore the rich diversity of African wildlife in the numerous national parks and reserves.
  • Visit iconic landmarks like Mount Kilimanjaro, the Sahara Desert, and Victoria Falls.
  • Embark on a cultural tour to experience the traditions and lifestyle of indigenous African tribes.
  • Go on a safari adventure in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa to spot the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino).
  • Relax on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar, Seychelles, or Mauritius.

Introducing Africa

Africa is located southwest of Asia, bordering the Indian Ocean to the east, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and Europe to the north across the Mediterranean Sea. It is broadly divided into North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. Deserts cover approximately one-third of Africa's total area, making it the continent with the largest desert area. The Sahara Desert is the world's largest desert. Besides deserts, Africa also boasts lush forests and vast savannahs. The Nile River Basin in Africa is one of the cradles of ancient civilizations. Egypt, located in the lower reaches of the Nile, is one of the four ancient civilizations of the world. Its pyramids and the Sphinx are marvels of human architecture.

Africa has many tourist countries and attractions, such as the island country of Seychelles, Egypt, one of the four ancient civilizations, Tunisia, famous for its blue and white towns, the Sahara Desert, the world's largest desert, Victoria Falls, Mount Kilimanjaro, Kruger National Park and numerous wildlife parks. It is a place that travel enthusiasts cannot miss.

Climate and best time to travel

Mainly tropical desert climate, tropical savanna climate, and tropical rainforest climate;

Different regions and countries have different climates, and travel times are also different. It is best to avoid the rainy season and dry season.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Africa's world's best:

The Sahara Desert, the world's largest desert

The Nile River, the world's longest river

The world's longest rift valley - the Great Rift Valley of East Africa

The Congo Basin, the world's largest basin

The world's longest strait - Mozambique Channel

The best-preserved of the Seven Wonders of the World - the Pyramids


Most Popular FAQs for Africa

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Africa is the cradle of humanity, with a history spanning millions of years. From ancient Egyptian civilization to the kingdoms of Mali and Ghana, Africa's history is rich and diverse. The continent holds immense cultural, geographical, and historical significance, as it is home to some of the world’s oldest human fossils and key ecological systems.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Africa is a vast continent comprising 54 countries, spanning across all four hemispheres. To travel within Africa, common modes of transport include international flights, buses, trains, taxis, and walking, depending on the specific region or country. Major international airports are located in cities like Johannesburg, Nairobi, Cairo, and Addis Ababa.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Since Africa is a continent, the best time to visit varies by country and region. Generally, the dry season (June to October) is considered ideal for safaris, while coastal areas and islands can be visited year-round. Each country has its own tourist seasons and peak times.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees for attractions in Africa vary widely. For example, national park fees in Kenya or Tanzania range from $50 to $100 per day for non-residents. Tickets can be bought online for many parks or at the entrance gates. However, it’s advisable to book in advance for popular sites during peak seasons.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular attractions, safaris, or during peak tourist seasons. A couple of weeks' notice is typically sufficient, but for accommodations and tours, booking a few months in advance is advisable, especially for peak safari months.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

The time needed to explore Africa varies greatly depending on your destination and interests. A safari can take anywhere from 3 days to a week, while exploring larger regions like Southern or Eastern Africa could take months if you want to explore multiple countries and cultures.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River (Zambia/Zimbabwe border).
  • The Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.
  • Table Mountain and Cape Town in South Africa.
  • The Pyramids of Giza and the Nile River in Egypt.
  • The Maasai Mara Reserve in Kenya for a classic African safari.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are widely available in most African countries. They are offered in languages like English, French, Spanish, and sometimes local languages, depending on the region. Audio guides are available at some cultural and historical sites.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, offering panoramic views.
  • Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania for breathtaking landscapes.
  • Victoria Falls from both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides.
  • The Sahara Desert for dramatic, vast desert landscapes.
  • The Great Migration in the Serengeti for stunning wildlife photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The itinerary largely depends on the countries and regions you wish to visit. A common route for wildlife enthusiasts is the "Classic East African Safari," which includes Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. For those interested in history, Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa offer rich cultural experiences.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Some attractions in Africa, such as certain safari parks or desert tours, offer night safaris or stargazing opportunities. However, night visits are generally not available to most sites due to safety concerns, especially in rural or wildlife areas.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Africa’s top tourist spots can be crowded during peak seasons (July to October). The least crowded times are typically during the rainy season (November to March) when there are fewer tourists, and accommodation prices are lower, though some regions may be harder to access due to weather.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities vary by location. Major cities and tourist areas offer a wide range of restaurants, shops, and rest areas. National parks and remote areas may have more limited facilities, often consisting of basic rest stops, food stalls, and souvenir shops.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Accessibility varies greatly. Some urban attractions and major safari lodges are equipped with ramps and facilities for disabled visitors. However, more rugged or remote areas, such as national parks, may have limited accessibility for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While credit cards and mobile payments are accepted in larger cities, many rural or safari locations only accept cash, usually in USD or local currencies. It’s advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling to remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

In larger cities and popular tourist spots, there is an array of restaurants offering local and international cuisine. In more remote areas, accommodations and tour operators may provide meals. It's common to find local eateries serving dishes like stews, grilled meats, and vegetables.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most major cities. Halal food is widely available in countries with Muslim populations, such as Morocco, Egypt, and Kenya. Rural areas may have more limited options, but it's possible to find vegetarian-friendly dishes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations range from luxury lodges and resorts in popular areas like Serengeti and Cape Town, to budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses in cities like Nairobi and Marrakech. Safari camps provide an immersive experience in more remote areas.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • The Maasai Mara Reserve (Kenya) and Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) for a combined safari experience.
  • Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park (Botswana) for a day trip combining natural beauty and wildlife.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are common in tourist destinations and national parks. Popular souvenirs include African crafts, jewelry, textiles (like Maasai shuka), carved wooden animals, and beadwork.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • For long-distance travel, flights are the most efficient way to move between major African cities and regions.
  • Local buses, taxis, and domestic flights are common for travel between smaller towns and popular tourist sites.