Middle East and Africa

Introducing Middle East and Africa

Whether in terms of history and culture, human landscape or natural landscape, the Middle Eastern and African countries have rich tourism resources. In recent years, with the improvement of various situations such as the simplification of visas in the Middle Eastern and African countries, destinations in the Middle East and Africa have become more and more popular among Chinese tourists.

Middle East and Africa generally refers to West Asia and North Africa. West Asia countries include Saudi Arabia, Iran, Kuwait, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Turkey, Israel, Palestine, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Yemen and Cyprus.

Climate and best time to travel

The climate is mainly tropical desert, with drought and little rain throughout the year;

The climate varies little throughout the year

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Morocco

Located in the northwest of the African continent, south of the Strait of Gibraltar, it straddles the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, with a coastline of over 1,700 kilometers. Its terrain is complex, with the steep Atlas Mountains in the center and north, the Upper Plateau and the pre-Saharan plateau in the east and south, and only the northwest coastal area is a narrow, low, warm plain.

Dubai

Dubai, the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates, lies on the southeastern coast of the Persian Gulf. It is also the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE. With its extensive development and vibrant real estate, sports events, and conferences, Dubai has captured the world's attention with its near-record-breaking achievements, making it a synonym for luxury.

Tunisia

Tunisia, known as the "backyard of Europe", is located at the northernmost tip of Africa, facing the Mediterranean Sea to the north and east, and across the sea from Sicily in southern Italy. It takes only 30 minutes by boat to reach the European continent. It is a key point for east-west shipping in the Mediterranean and has a Mediterranean coastline of 1,300 kilometers. It is a typical Mediterranean country.

Seychelles

Seychelles, an archipelago nation nestled in the Indian Ocean east of Africa, boasts a reputation as a tourist paradise, with half of its territory dedicated to nature reserves. Furthermore, the Creole people of Seychelles are known for their love of music and their ability to sing and dance. Seychelles cuisine offers a variety of flavors, from authentic and refreshing to intensely spicy. A trip to Seychelles will surely fulfill the vacation you've imagined countless times.

Mauritius

Like the Maldives, the Republic of Mauritius can definitely make it into the top 5 island honeymoon destinations. In this volcanic island country, many of your travel wishes will be fulfilled one by one: sea view, jungle, wildlife, extreme sports, humanities, food... In short, when you come here, you will know what paradise is.

It is recommended to play for about 7 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Middle East and Africa

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

The Middle East and Africa are home to some of the world's most ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Phoenicians, and Sumerians. The region is significant for its historical landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza, the ancient city of Petra, and the Great Rift Valley, which showcases rich cultural and natural heritage.

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

The Middle East and Africa span several countries across two continents. Major entry points include airports in cities like Cairo, Dubai, Nairobi, and Cape Town. Transportation options include flights, taxis, buses, and in larger cities, metro systems are available.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours vary by country and attraction. Generally, outdoor attractions are best visited from November to March, avoiding the intense summer heat. Cultural landmarks have regular hours, typically 8 AM to 6 PM.

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

Ticket prices vary widely depending on the attraction. Iconic sites like the Pyramids of Egypt may charge around $10-$20 USD for entry. Tickets can often be bought online or directly at the site.

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

It is recommended to book tickets in advance for popular attractions, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Booking 1-2 weeks ahead is generally sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring major attractions such as the Pyramids, Petra, or safaris can take anywhere from a half-day to a full day, depending on your interest. Visiting multiple sites in a region may require several days to fully experience.

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

Must-see highlights include the Pyramids of Giza (Egypt), the Atlas Mountains (Morocco), the historic city of Petra (Jordan), Maasai Mara (Kenya), and the Sahara Desert (Tunisia). Each region offers unique historical, natural, and cultural experiences.

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

Guided tours are widely available in most major tourist destinations, with guides speaking various languages, including English, French, and Spanish. Audio guides are also offered in some attractions, especially in Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Photography spots include the panoramic view of the Pyramids at sunrise, the cliffs of Petra, the safaris in Kenya and Tanzania, and the sweeping dunes of the Sahara Desert. The best time for photos is often early in the morning or late in the afternoon for soft lighting.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary in Egypt starts with the Pyramids of Giza, followed by the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. In Morocco, start with the souks in Marrakech, and head to the Atlas Mountains. For safaris, allocate several days to explore Kenya's Maasai Mara or Tanzania's Serengeti.

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

Night visits and light shows are available at the Pyramids in Egypt, where a sound and light show takes place in the evening. Some desert regions also offer evening stargazing tours.

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

The Middle East and Africa can be crowded during peak tourist seasons (e.g., summer months in Europe or holiday seasons). The least crowded times are typically in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

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

Most major attractions offer basic facilities like toilets, water, and food stalls. Shops selling local souvenirs are also common, especially in popular tourist destinations.

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

While many attractions are accessible to children and the elderly, the region's desert and mountainous terrains may pose challenges for disabled visitors. It’s advisable to check with specific attractions for accessibility details.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely used, but credit cards and mobile payments (such as Apple Pay or Alipay) are accepted in larger cities and tourist areas. It's recommended to carry cash for remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Restaurants and cafés vary widely depending on the location. In major cities like Cairo, Dubai, and Cape Town, you'll find a mix of international and local cuisine, from street food to upscale restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are readily available throughout the Middle East and Africa. Local cuisines such as Moroccan tagine and Egyptian falafel cater to vegetarian and vegan diets.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations range from budget hostels to luxury hotels. In cities like Cairo, Marrakech, and Nairobi, you’ll find plenty of options close to major tourist sites. In rural or desert areas, luxury resorts or traditional guesthouses are common.

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

In Egypt, combine a visit to the Pyramids with a trip to the Egyptian Museum. In Morocco, visit both Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains in one trip. In South Africa, consider combining safaris with Cape Town’s landmarks.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are abundant in markets and tourist areas. Typical souvenirs include handmade jewelry, textiles (scarves, carpets), spices, and local crafts like wooden carvings or pottery.

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

Transportation options include domestic flights, taxis, and buses. In many cities, rental cars are available for greater flexibility. In rural or desert areas, organized tours or private transport are recommended.