Africa is a continent with an entirely different experience for every traveller because there are different places to visit and things to do. There are different wildlife, savannas and natural wonders from Egypt to South Africa.
You can choose to go on an African safari tour and see the Big Five and other native animals like gorillas and lemurs. The 54 countries in Africa are unique and have their local culture and traditions, so you are sure to experience something different if you choose to visit a country in Africa.
In this article, we will look at the 18 best African countries to visit. You will learn why you need to visit these countries, things to do, and what to expect.
18 Best African Countries to Visit
1. Egypt
Egypt tops the list because of the history and wonders that can be seen in different parts of the country. In Egypt, you get to see ancient structures and artefacts out in the open where they belong, not just in museums.
Be prepared to see the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. You can also explore the popular Khan el-Khalili bazaar in Cairo, which is a labyrinth of alleyways filled with the scent of spices.
Other places to see in Egypt include the Siwa Oasis, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the Valley of the Kings, Luxor and Karnak Temples, and Alexandria.
Unlike many other African countries on this list, Egypt is not home to large animals. This is because Egypt is more of a desert country, and big cats, hippos, and many other animals found throughout Africa are no longer common.
The animals you might see in Egypt are Nile crocodiles, gazelles, Egyptian cobras, camels, hyenas, jackals, and foxes.
Although Egypt is one of the safest countries to visit, you need to say no to random people that try to approach you as a tourist. Do not accept free rides or anything else from a random stranger in Egypt in order to avoid being scammed.
Many YouTubers, like Jake Braymiller and William John Sonbuchner, the host of the Best Ever Food Review Show, have both shared their experiences, mostly related to strict policies and being cautious as someone new.
The best time to visit Egypt is from March to April and September to October. During this time, the temperature is pleasant enough to enjoy outdoor activities.
2. Morocco
Morocco is another African country that many travellers love to visit and explore. There are many places and wildlife to see, especially in the desert regions.
I recommend exploring the maze-like medinas of Fes and Marrakech.
In Marrakech, you can go to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, Bahia Palace, or Jardin Majorelle and enjoy the view and landscape. Even if you are not a photographer, you should capture the views of not just the colourful buildings but the surrounding areas.
While in Fes, you can also check out some top attractions like Chouara Tanneries, Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University, and Bou Inania Madrasa.
There are many other cities and attractions to explore in Morocco. Some cities to see are Essaouira, Chefchaouen, Meknes, Tangier, Rabat, Ouarzazate, and Agadir.
For Sahara Desert Camps with overnight camel treks, visit Ouarzazate.
The best time to visit Morocco is during spring, from March to May, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. Another best time to visit is during autumn, from September to November, if you want to avoid the summer heat while taking city tours and desert trips.
Although Morocco is a safe country to visit, as a tourist, you need to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Make sure to use licensed guides and trusted transport, especially in Casablanca.
3. South Africa
South Africa is the number one safari destination for many wildlife travellers. The country offers different wildlife encounters in the wild.
Just like many other African countries on this list, you get to see the Big Five animals, like lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants, and Cape buffalo.
Some popular wildlife destinations in South Africa include Kruger National Park, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, Addo Elephant National Park, Garden Route National Park, and Table Mountain National Park.
Aside from seeing big cats and other animals in the savanna, you can also see great white sharks and the African penguin, which is found around the southern African waters.
Other activities to try in South Africa include cage diving, bungee jumping from the world’s highest bridge, or hiking to the top of Table Mountain. There is always something to do in Cape Town, from wine tasting to checking out top restaurants and enjoying the outdoors.
I recommend taking a ferry to Robben Island, where you can learn about the history of South Africa.
What to expect in South Africa? If you are a first-time safari-goer, expect to experience wild animals like lions in their natural habitats.
Just like many other countries remain cautious, especially in urban cities.
4. Tanzania
Tanzania is one of the countries with the most wildlife in Africa. This country offers top attractions like Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, where there is abundant wildlife.
This East African country is home to over 20% of the warm-blooded animal population in Africa, found throughout the 21 national parks and reserves in the country.
One of the mind-blowing wildlife scenes to capture is the Great Wildebeest migration in the Serengeti. During this time, over a million wildebeest move across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing and water.
Lake Manyara National Park is the place to visit if you want to see the popular tree-climbing lions of Tanzania.
Aside from a safari adventure, you can explore the island of Zanzibar if you want to relax on the white-sand beaches, in the clear waters, and in Stone Town.
Do not forget to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. This mountain can be seen from the Kilimanjaro National Park if you also want to see wildlife around the mountain.
The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season, from July to October, especially if you want to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration.
5. Kenya
Kenya is another East African country you want to visit for wildlife, mountains and islands. Just like a few countries with safari adventures, Kenya is home to the Big Five game animals (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros, and elephant) found particularly in the Masai Mara region of the country.
Kenya has a high population of lions, cheetahs, and leopards living in the open savanna. There are different activities to do in Kenya, from visiting national parks and Hell’s Gate to relaxing on Diani Beach.
You also get to see the millions of wildebeest that migrate from the Serengeti to Masai Mara in Tanzania.
Another way to explore Kenya is by taking a hot air balloon ride over the Mara at sunrise. This way you can spot places from the sky and gain a new experience.
Some national parks to visit in Kenya are Amboseli National Park, Nairobi National Park, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Aberdare National Park, Hell’s Gate National Park, and Mount Elgon National Park.
6. Namibia
Namibia is one of the best places to go for a unique safari experience in Africa. This country is made up of large areas of deserts, sand dunes, and a beautiful coastline.
The view of the Sand dunes of the Namib desert is similar to what you expect from a sci-fi movie, but in this case you get to experience it in person.
You can choose to climb the Dune 45 in Sossusvlei area of the Namibia desert to view the sunrise from the top. You can also explore the ghost town of Kolmanskop, where you get to see abandoned buildings.
Wildlife you will expect to see in Namibia include wild dogs, lions, giraffes, brown Hyenas, dik dik and critically endangered black rhinos. National parks like Etosha National Park are home to desert-adapted elephants and rhinos.
The Skeleton Coast is another popular tourist attraction in Namibia with shipwrecks and unique wildlife.
Other attractions I recommend seeing in Namibia include Fish River Canyon, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Caprivi Strip, Damaraland and Spitzkoppe.
The best time to visit Namibia is during the dry season, from May to October. This is when the weather is more pleasant and wildlife can be seen around water sources.
7. Botswana
Botswana is a landlocked African country that is bordered by South Africa. The country is another great choice for people who want to explore wildlife and nature.
There are also many places to visit and things to do in Botswana. The Okavango Delta, which is an inland delta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to a diverse population of wildlife.
Okavango Delta is made up of free canals, lakes, swamps and islands, which is perfect for wild animals to thrive. seasonal home to a wide variety of wildlife. All of the big five game animals, the lion, leopard, African buffalo, African bush elephant, and black and white rhinoceros can be found in the delta.
Explore the waterways on a traditional mokoro (local canoe) ride. You also get to interact with the locals that have spent most of their lives living in the Okavango Delta.
Another recommended place to visit is the Chobe National Park, which is famous for having one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa.
The elephant population in Chobe is estimated to be around 50000. They are mostly Kalahari elephants and move in large herds.
You can choose to view elephants and other wildlife from a boat cruise on the Chobe River.
Other activities and places to visit in Botswana include Makgadikgadi Pans, Tsodilo Hills, Nxai Pan National Park, Mokolodi Nature Reserve, and Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
8. Uganda
Uganda is an East African country you do not want to miss. Often called “the Pearl of Africa”, Uganda is a green country that is a paradise for primates like gorillas.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are home to over half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas. This makes Uganda the perfect place for gorilla trekking in Africa.
There are up to 60 protected areas in Uganda, including Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Kibale National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Mount Elgon National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Semuliki National Park.
In many of these parks, you get to come face-to-face with mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and even monkeys in their natural habitats. To spot chimpanzees, check out Kibale Forest National Park.
For a unique experience, go on a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park to view the Murchison Falls.
To explore the majority of the destinations in Uganda, I recommend a 10 to 14 Days Trip, so as to move at your own pace.
9. Rwanda
Rwanda is known as the Land of a Thousand Hills due to the mountains and rock formations found throughout the country. The country is bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Just like other neighbouring countries, Rwanda offers a unique gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park. Volcanoes is home to one-third of the world’s mountain gorilla population.
Nyungwe Forest in Rwanda is another great place to see primates like common chimpanzees and Ruwenzori colobus arboreal monkeys in their natural habitats.
The Big Five game animals can all be seen in the Akagera National Park. are one of the biggest attractions in Akagera whereby travelers get to see the Lions, Elephants, Buffalos, Leopards, and Rhinos
You can also visit Lake Kivu, where you get to learn about the coffee making process. The capital city of Kigali is also a great getaway location to unlock new experiences.
10. Ethiopia
Ethiopia is one of the African countries to visit if you want to learn about ancient African culture and history.
One of the most popular attractions in Ethiopia is the Rock-hewn Churches of Lalibela. They were carved out of solid rock centuries ago.
Other places to visit are the ancient city of Axum, where you get to see the obelisks, and the castles of Gondar. You can also hike in the Simien Mountains, which is home to the gelada baboon and the rare Ethiopian wolf.
Although there is wildlife in Ethiopia, it is not as widely seen as in other neighbouring countries. Ethiopia is the perfect adventure if you prefer ancient cities and culture.
11. Zambia
Zambia is among the best African countries to visit, not just for a unique safari experience but for nature. The Victoria Falls makes seeing wildlife a unique experience for travellers.
Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The Victoria Falls can be seen from both Zambia and Zimbabwe, but the Devil’s Pool is located on the Zambian side of the falls.
Expect to go on a walking safari and experience the African bush or even track lions on foot with an expert guide in South Luangwa National Park. South Luangwa is also home to a high population of Leopards that live in the wild.
Other places to visit in Zambia include Kafue National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, and the city of Livingstone.
12. Madagascar
Madagascar is an African country that has been split from the African mainland for millions of years,and this has enabled native wildlife to flourish.
There are many reasons to want to visit Madagascar. One of those reasons is that Madagascar is the only place in the world to see Lemurs in their natural habitats.
In Madagascar, you will see over 100 species of lemurs jumping through the trees in national parks like Andasibe-Mantadia and Ranomafana.
Another unique place to visit is the Avenue of the Baobabs, where you get to see tall baobab trees. If you are up for it, you can have a taste of the baobab fruit.
You can also hike through the sandstone canyons of Isalo National Park or relax on the beaches of Nosy Be.
Although you might not encounter big cats and other large mammals, you might get to see something different, like the Fossa. If you are a fan of chameleons, Madagascar has a high population of chameleons found throughout the national parks in the country.
13. Mozambique
Mozambique is the perfect travel destination for people who want to spend time at the beach while still enjoying the safari experience. You get to explore the coastlines filled with palm trees and turquoise waters.
If you are a scuba diver, you want to experience Mozambique in person. The Bazaruto Archipelago and the Quirimbas Archipelago are chains of islands with coral reefs that are full of marine life.
Aside from snorkeling, diving, or just relaxing on the white sands in Mozambique, you can enjoy the local cuisine. The food and architecture of Mozambique are influenced by Portuguese.
Mozambique is also home to the Big Five game animals, including other species like buffalo, zebras, hippos, and crocodiles. So, you get to see a variety of country marine life like whale sharks, manta rays, and dolphins while still exploring the safari.
14. São Tomé and Príncipe
Sao Tome and Principe is not like many other African countries on this list; it is an island country and consists of two main islands, Sao Tome and Principe.
Although São Tomé and Príncipe is the second-smallest and second-least populated African state, it is among the best African countries to visit. This island country is known as the “Chocolate Islands” for their cocoa plantations.
There are many untouched rainforests and secluded beaches, like the dense rainforests of Obo Natural Park, where you can go hiking to volcanic peaks.
If you want a less crowded African adventure, this is the perfect place to be. You can enjoy the peace and quiet of the beaches while exploring the marine life.
Do not forget to check out colonial towns like Sao Tome city and explore the architecture, markets, and cultural centres. While you are there, also try local dishes like calulu, grilled fish, and coconut-based desserts.
15. Ghana
Ghana is a country in West Africa with a rich history and culture. Unlike other African countries that focus on safari, Ghana and many other West African countries do not focus on wildlife.
You can learn about historic slave castles of Cape Coast and Elmina, a reminder of the transatlantic slave trade. The Ashanti region of Ghana is still known to heavily practice their culture to this day, so expect to see some arts and crafts.
If you plan your visit right, it can coincide with one of the country’s colourful festivals, like the Homowo festival of the Ga people or the Aboakyir festival in Winneba.
Places like Kakum National Park are ideal for the famous canopy walkway that is set up high above the rainforest floor. For a feel of a safari experience, you can visit the Mole National Park, where you get to spot elephants, antelopes, baboons, and other wildlife.
Other places to visit in Ghana are Shai Hills Resource Reserve, Labadi Beach, Bojo Beach, and Boti Falls & Wli Waterfalls.
16. Senegal
Senegal is a West African country that is among the best countries to visit in Africa. This country is known for its crowded markets, beautiful beaches, and history.
If you want to learn about the African slave trade, then Gorée Island is the place you want to visit. The island is located off the coast of Senegal, just opposite Dakar.
While on the island, visit the “House of Slaves” museum and memorial to learn about where enslaved Africans were kept captive before going through the “Door of No Return”.
Another place to visit in Senegal is the Lac Rose, also known as Pink Lake. The water appears to be pink with a high salt content. Locals harvest the salt from the bottom of the lake.
There are still a few wildlife to see in Senegal, and you can walk with lions at the Fathala Wildlife Reserve. Other places to see animals in Senegal include Bandia Wildlife Reserve, Saloum Delta National Park, and the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary.
17. Malawi
Malawi is another African country you want to visit, mostly due to the wildlife. The country is bordered by Zambia, Tanzania and Mozambique.
Just like other bordering countries, Malawi is home to the Big Five game animals and many other large mammals. You can explore wildlife and nature at Lake Malawi, Liwonde National Park, Majete Wildlife Reserve, Nyika National Park, and Zomba Plateau.
Whether you are planning on hiking, swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, or chilling in the restaurants, Malawi offers a unique experience.
18. Tunisia
Tunisia is a North African country that is often overlooked by many travellers. Although Tunisia is not home to big cats and other large animals, you can spot antelopes like the Addax and others like wild boars and hyenas.
Be prepared to explore the rich history, beautiful beaches, and the blend of cultures by visiting places like the Roman ruins of Dougga and El Jem.
Another unique thing to do in Tunisia is to explore the Star Wars filming locations in the Sahara desert.
Conclusion
There are many places to explore in Africa; each of the 54 countries has something unique to explore. In this article, we have listed the 18 best African countries to visit.
These African countries offer unique adventures like safari experiences, historical buildings, beaches, and unique activities for families, solo travellers, and even couples. The countries on this list are somewhat safe to visit, but you still have to remain vigilant.
Here are some tips to stay safe:
- Make sure you do not move around at night without a guide.
- Avoid strangers that try to approach you, especially in cities.
- Make sure your valuables are hidden from sight in crowded places.
- Book activities and hotels before travelling.
FAQs
Which is the safest African country to visit?
The safest country in Africa is Mauritius. It is a small island country in the Indian Ocean.
What is the best time of year to visit Africa?
The best time to visit Africa depends on the country and the activities you want to do. For safaris in East and Southern Africa, the dry season from June to October is the best time for wildlife viewing. For North Africa, the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer more pleasant weather to enjoy your trip.
Is it safe to travel to Africa?
It is safe to travel to most countries in Africa. The majority of the countries in Africa are safe for tourists and visitors, but you still need to be aware of your surroundings and follow local advice.
Can I travel to Africa on a budget?
Travelling to Africa on a budget can be a good thing. You get to spend less by staying in guesthouses or campsites, eating at local restaurants, and using public transportation.
Many experiences, like hiking and exploring local markets, are often free or very affordable in Africa.
Hi, I’m Louis Ojibe, and I grew up around wildlife in Africa. I have always been fascinated by animals and nature across the world.
As a child, my parents used to take me to see wild animals like lions, elephants, gorillas, tortoises, and many others at our local zoo.
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