As one of the most varied, exciting and interesting continents in the world, Africa has something for everyone. From white sandy beaches to thick tropical jungles, you’ll find something that piques your interest. So, when it comes to booking a holiday to Africa, it can be hard to know what to book and where: do you go on safari? Do you have a beach holiday? Do you climb active volcanoes? Well, this list of suggestions will hopefully help you narrow down your options, until you find the most perfect holiday for you. Plus, you can always save the other choices for your next vacation!
What to See in Africa
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
If you want some of the best views in Africa, then look no further than climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. The highest mountain in the continent – and the highest freestanding mountain in the world – has views and scenery like no other. Traverse the dry Tanzanian landscape, and see it transform into grassy greens, and finally into a year-round snow-capped peak. You’ll need to do some training before climbing the mountain – to get to the top, you can’t just turn up and expect to do it spontaneously. For more information on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, click here.
Marrakech, Morocco
This vibrant, bustling city shines from its spot north of the Sahara. Under the dry African sun, you’ll be able to do everything from visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites, to watching snake charmers and skilled street performers. All around you, stalls and souqs will tempt you, beguiling you into buying their shimmering wares. From hand-woven carpets to gold trinkets – be prepared to haggle. Watch what you wear in Marrakech: stick to wearing loose, modest clothing to respect the culture and protect you from the burning sun. Also, don’t forget to book tranquil, peaceful accommodation, to give you some respite from the chaotic city center.
The Namib Desert and Skeleton Coast, Namibia
If you can’t guess from its name, the Skeleton Coast is an eerie, ever-changing landscape, with dense fogs and rolling dunes – and littered with the skeletal remains of the ships of early explorers. Plus, you’re bound to spot whale skeletons too, remnants of its old whaling history. So, why visit? Well, it’s beautiful. It’s a pristine strip of coastline, and for that reason, only a certain number of visitors are allowed to access the northern areas of the coast. For something just as magnificent and ancient, take a trip to the Namib Desert. Considered one of the oldest deserts in the world, it’s home to huge numbers of fauna and flora, ensuring you’ll love every minute of any trip.
Masai Mara, Kenya
While you’ll be guaranteed to see amazing animals at any time of the year, most visitors time their trips to the Masai Mara around the annual wildebeest migration. This spectacular event is like nothing else in the world, and worth experiencing. The Mara is home to huge numbers of animals, including the Big Five. In fact, it has some of the largest animal populations out of any reserve in Africa.
Seychelles
The Seychelles is paradise on earth. Bright, vivid colors make up its heavenly landscapes, from the rich greens of its jungles and the bright reds of its birds, to the deep azure blues of the ocean. Made up of 115 islands, the Seychelles is the perfect spot for spotting wildlife, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying the best things in life. From snorkeling to mountaineering, the Seychelles offers everything: whether you want a relaxing beach holiday or an adrenaline-fueled adventure.
Victoria Falls, Zambia (or Zimbabwe)
The Victoria Falls makes up the world’s largest waterfall – and when you hear it, you’ll understand just how enormous it is. It’s not just the waterfall that’s incredible: thanks to the constant rising mist and water spray, an abundance of wildlife has sprung up around it, forming magnificent tropical jungles, and giving a home to many animals. The Falls are easy to explore. You can visit them by boat or by plane – or even swim right up to the edge, thanks to the dead pools at the top.
Cape Verde
If you want to experience paradise, but you don’t want to relinquish your sense of adventure, then Cape Verde is your ideal destination. This island cluster – made from volcanoes – is home to gorgeous red wines, a crystal-clear ocean, and lively music festivals. The craggy peaks and green valleys are perfect for hiking, while the white beaches are ideal for listening to live music and relaxing in the tropical heat.
Gabon
For the chance to see a huge range of amazing animals, head to Gabon. The white sandy beaches and fast-flowing rivers will lead you to incredible discoveries, like gorillas, turtles, chimpanzees, hippos and whales. If you want a holiday steeped in eco-tourism, then Gabon should be your first choice: the country has done vast amounts to protect its beautiful landscape and the creatures that live within it.
The Sahara Desert
Crossing around ten different countries, and taking up a space around the same size as the United States, the Sahara Desert is on many people’s bucket lists. While some of the desert is off limits to tourists, much of it is open to visitors. You can spend countless days there, experiencing hypnotic camel rides, adrenaline-filled four-wheel drive expeditions, and campfires filled with songs, chants and delicious foods. In addition to the cultural spots, you could see the back drop of many Star Wars films.
Lesotho
If you want a holiday filled with action and adventure, then pay a trip to Lesotho. You can choose from activities on land, in the water, or on the snow – as all of Lesotho is 1,300 kilometers above sea-level. From bikers and hikers, to 4×4 drivers and boaters, you can pick almost any activity to try out. Then, once you’re worn out from adrenaline, you can explore the areas wonderful landscape – and even check out some of the old dinosaur prints and remains.
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park is one of the oldest reserves in Africa, and prides itself on its gorilla conservation efforts. You’ll be able to spend time trekking and tracking gorillas, taking on differing levels of terrain and effort. This is a once in a lifetime experience: getting the chance to get up close and personal with these magnificent animals.
