23 Best Places to Visit in Africa

Africa is a traveler’s dream for a continent – wild animals, captivating cultures, and breathtaking architecture – all available for exploration. Oftentimes people assume that all of Africa is plainlands with lions and giraffes wandering freely – and while that is true for some of the country (like in Kenya) – Africa has so much more to offer. I teamed up with other travel bloggers to bring you 23 Best places to visit in Africa to add to your bucket list!

Be sure to check out the rest of the series – the United States, South America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania!

This post contains affiliate links. This means if you purchase something from a link, I may make a small commission at no cost to you. This helps me keep the site running and free.

Chefchaouen, Morocco

In northeast Morocco lies a picturesque blue-washed town on the side of a tall mountain that resembles a pair of goat’s horns.

The stunning backdrop that overlooks the Rif mountain town of Chefchaouen is enough to fulfill your desire for beautiful landscapes and unique Moroccan architecture. The town is a unique blend of cultures with its

Jewish-inspired blue-washed buildings, octagonal mosques and Spanish ruins. It remains an iconic shopping opportunity for tourists looking to invest in the finest woven materials in the country. You can also dine at local food outlets that are famous for their goat’s cheese dishes. 

Chefchaouen is a slow-paced town and to get the most from it you need to wander aimlessly around the Medina slowly too, taking in everything you see. Explore the narrow streets, stop for a glass of mint tea in the squares scattered around town and observe local life. Visit the Kasbah Museum and learn some history.

A good way to end the day is to hike the two kilometres out to the Spanish mosque up the hill across from the Medina of Chefchaouen. Your reward is a great view of the blue town and a gorgeous sunset. A recommended place to stay would be at the Yasmina Hotel near the main square. Interestingly, this particular part of Morocco is well known for being a significant producer of cannabis.

The blue walls of Chefchaouen. Photo by The Silverbackpacker

Fez, Morocco

Fes is the oldest and most spiritually enchanting imperial city in not only Morocco but Africa as a whole. The city is a tribute to the eminent King Moulay Idris, who was the first king of Morocco.

The old Medina of Fes is a clear start and endpoint of any trip to Fes. The Old Medina begins at the elaborately decorated Bab el Jloud. The most elegant introduction to old Fes.

Fes boasts a wide selection of cozy hospitable riads. Staying in a traditional Riad is the ultimate Morocco experience and where better to enjoy Moroccan hospitality than Fes? I loved staying at the Riad Farah. offers a comfortable and personalized experience for a reasonable price.

Once you are settled in, the first thing to do is to book a guided tour of the old Medina. This is the best way to see all that the soil has to offer, in the minimum time. Exploring the medina with a guide will ensure that you don’t get lost and also prevents straddlers and traders from bothering you.

Important sites to check out are the Chouara tanneries, Madrassa Bou Inania, and the world’s oldest university, Kairouan. When it comes to traditional Moroccan food, Dar Roumana riad in Fes medina is the best place to enjoy a tasty Moroccan lunch or dinner.

Fez, Morocco. Photo by Cape to Casa.

Merzouga, Morocco

Merzouga in Morocco is an absolute dream destination for the year 2022. This small desert town is located in the southeast of the country, almost on the border with Algeria, and forms the gateway to the Sahara! Impressive and really special is the Erg Chebbi, a beautiful section of the Sahara where a huge sand dune landscape with heights of up to 200 meters inspires.

Already at the approach to Merzouga, one marvels at the high golden sand dunes, which build up already behind the townhouses. For a visit, it is best to book a night in a romantic Berber tent and spend an unforgettable time in the desert. Who likes, one rides on the back of a camel over the high dunes and takes a Quad. A real highlight are also the sunsets, which are best enjoyed from the top of a high sand dune.

In the evening, it is best to try a tajine, a clay pot in which delicious dishes with meat and fish or just vegetables are prepared.
Another plus is the great desert hotels, which inspire with beautiful design and unique ambiance flair. A real insider tip is the Kasbah Azalay with a great pool, excellent opportunities for excursions, and a perfect location on the edge of the sand dunes.

Merzouga. Photo by PlacesofJuma

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech, Morocco makes a dream destination in Africa for two reasons: one, the shopping, and two, the culture and experiences. You can get the best of both just by visiting the colourful Medinas. These are large labyrinth markets filled with the aromas of spices and traditional wares such as leather goods, pottery, and clothing.

When not shopping, there are other epic things to do in Marrakech that will satisfy adventurous travellers. Tackle the sand dunes on a quad bike or take a camel safari through the Sahara Desert. You can even take hot air balloons and see the beauty of this African country from the clouds. If you’re more interested in culture and history, take a visit to the old Imperial landmarks such as the Erg Chebbi or the Bahia Palace.

Many people choose to stay within the heart of the Medina’s in a Riad, a traditional Moroccan house. Others choose to stay in vast all-inclusive resorts such as the four seasons that are more isolated and relaxing than the bustling centres. You can also stay in normal hotels that give you the best of both worlds.

Marrakech, Morocco. Photo by VeggTravel.

Abu Simbel, Egypt

At the southern end of Egypt is an incredible temple that often goes overlooked. Abu Simbel, the temple complex of Ramses II and his queen, Nefertari, is a colossal temple that will literally make your jaw drop. Visiting Abu Simbel is often an optional excursion on a Nile River Cruise, but buses can be booked individually from Aswan. Only certified tours can visit the temple since they are protected.

Abu Simbel has withstood the test of time – it dates back 3,000 years! The temple was built on this site because it was already considered a sacred location to Hathor, goddess of motherhood, joy, and love. Originally completed around 1244 BC, the temple was covered in sand and lost to mother nature until 1813. Jean-Louis Burckhardt found the top of the temple. Italian explorer Giovanni Belzoni was able to enter the complex four years later.

In the early 1960s the Aswan High Dam was built and researchers realized that the temples would be flooded. In order to prevent this, the entire temple was taken apart brick by brick and reassembled at the current location. If you look closely, you can see the lines where the temple was taken apart. It was a huge (and impressive) engineering feat!

Most buses leave from Aswan around 4 am, and they will leave anyone who is late. The 3 am wake-up call is definitely worth the lack of sleep to see this incredible temple.

The colossal statues of Ramses II at Abu Simbel. Photo by The Directionally Challenged Traveler.

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

One of the best dream destinations in Africa is the iconic pyramids of Giza. The pyramids are such an inspiring travel destination that has landed at the top of many bucket lists. It was my first solo trip abroad, and seeing the pyramids inspired me to really travel more. To say they’re life-changing is an understatement.

Located just outside of Cairo, Giza is an easy day trip for travelers. There are many tours or you can drive to the complex yourself. Please make sure you lock your car and keep any valuables on you. This is true of any touristy area wherever you travel.

Each pyramid holds the remains of members of the Fourth Dynasty. This family reigned from around 2600 to 2500 BC and all of the pyramids were built during this time. Also in the complex is the Great Sphinx. This is the largest monolith statue in the world. It’s one of the best temples in Egypt and something you’ll remember forever.

The Pyramids and Sphinx are so well known that many think they’ll be a disappointment. I can honestly say that they were more impressive than I could ever imagine. For a hotel with a view of the pyramids, check out the Marriott Mena House in Cairo.

The Sphinx and one of the Pyramids. Photo by The Directionally Challenged Traveler.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

A truly bucket-list-worthy activity in Africa is to join a gorilla trekking tour in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. Would you believe there are only two populations of these mountain gorillas left in the world, one population is in Bwindi (and the other in Virunga in the Democratic Republic of Congo). In fact, there are only 1000 surviving mountain gorillas left in the world, with 17 families living in Bwindi. 

Trekking to the gorillas can only be done on a guided tour and spaces sell out quickly! Your day typically starts early, around 7am at the Park Headquarters, where you are treated to a welcome dance by the local women before embarking on your trek in a small group (typically 7 people per group). To get to the gorillas you must climb through dense forest and down steep muddy hills so a reasonable level of fitness is advised. 

Then when you reach the gorilla family you will be amazed as you witness these giant majestic creatures up close. The average size of the silverback gorilla is 5 feet tall and can weigh up to 270kg! This is your opportunity to take some photos and watch the gorillas eat and the younger ones play. You cannot get too close and your guide and some park rangers will be on-hand at all times to ensure your safety. You get an hour with your gorilla family before you need to make your way back to Park Headquarters. 

Trekking for gorillas in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one that you will never forget!

A gorilla in Uganda. Photo by Snap Happy Travel.

Masai Mara, Kenya

Probably the most famous game reserve in Kenya, the Masai Mara National Reserve is anything but a tourist destination. The extremely diverse ecosystem makes the Masai Mara one of the world’s greatest wildlife parks. Countless species of plants and animals call the park home.

The Masai Mara Reserve is one of the best safari parks in Kenya since it has a lot of opportunities to see the big 5 safari animals. Keep an eye out for leopards, lions, water buffalo, and more traversing the idyllic landscape! The best time to visit the Masai Mara is during the Great Migration – late July through mid-September. Millions of wildebeest and zebra make the trek from Tanzania to Kenya along the Masai River. It’s one of Mother Nature’s most impressive coordination- making it one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

To really make your time in the Masai Mara special, you can take a hot air balloon ride. It’s a great way to see the massive number of animals who call the Mara home. For an eco-friendly glamping experience, stay at the Mara River Bush Camp. We were able to see hippos bathing in the river right from our patio!

A hot air balloon over the Masai Mara, Kenya. Photo by the Directionally Challenged Traveler.

Serengeti National Park, Kenya

Serengeti National Park is one of the most beautiful places to go on a safari when you visit Tanzania. The park is so large that borders Kenya and the safari grounds extend into this country as well, with the Masai Mara Reserve.

The beauty of going to Serengeti is that you can do it no matter what budget you have, as there are options for everyone. A budget safari in Serengeti National Park will include the same places as a luxury one, the only difference would be the over night accommodation.

To visit Serengeti National Park you would need at least two full days, without taking in consideration the arrival or the departure. It takes almost a full day to travel to Serengeti from Moshi or Arusha – the two main cities from where the safari groups are usually organised. If you are on a luxury safari, you can fly to the Seronera airstrip, a tiny runway in the middle of the park.

When it comes to animals, you will be spoiled in Serengeti! Besides lions, cheetahs, leopards and antelopes, Serengeti is famous for the big migration, when hundred of thousands of wildebeest joined by zebras and other grazing animals move up to the Masai Mara reserve and then come back at the end of the year, following the wet season.

Elephants in the Serengeti. Photo by The World in my Pocket.

Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Amboseli National Park is nicknamed “home of the African elephant” because of the incredible places to observe large herds of elephants up close! Not only elephants, but Amboseli also has incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro – the highest peak in Africa.

It’s located about 150 miles southeast of Nairobi. The park is about 400 square kilometers and has five different habitats to explore – wetlands with sulfur springs, the savannah, woodlands, and the dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli. In 1991, Amboseli has declared a UNESCO-Mab Biosphere Reserve. Visiting Amboseli is like leaving civilization for the wild – and you won’t be disappointed.

The sheer quantity of animals will make you never look at a zoo the same way again – it almost feels like you’ve been transported onto another planet filled with animals. Amboseli National Park is a dream come true for any animal lover – but especially for people who love elephants.

South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

South Luangwa National Park is a great place to go for an experience of real bush life and also makes for one of the best safaris in Africa. It’s in a remote location in the north of Zambia and you can stay at any number of camps that are scenically located along the river that borders the national park with one of the best options being the Croc Valley Camp. 

Staying at the camp is an experience in itself as you can either camp in your own tent or stay in a luxurious tent right next to the river. It’s at these camps where you can enjoy your meals as well, especially when they have a barbecue going on which is normally every evening. 

There are no fences around your accommodation so the wildlife can come and go which makes for an opportunity for some possible up-close animal encounters. Each camp will offer its own vehicle and guide for a safari into the national park where you can see the wildlife which includes elephants, lions, leopards, antelopes, hippos, and much more, although you’re not guaranteed to see all animals of course.

The best things to do at South Luangwa are to just relax by the river soaking up the atmosphere and head out on a safari.

Elephants in South Luangwa National Park. Photo by The Backpacking Man.

Victoria Falls, Zambia

The magnificent Victoria Falls in Zambia is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling in Southern Africa. Located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the Victoria Falls, locally known as Mosi-Oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders”, is Africa’s largest waterfall. At 5604ft wide and 364ft high, it is also the largest curtain of falling water in the world. 

Trips to the Zambian side of Victoria Falls begin from the small town of Livingstone. You can easily take a taxi to the entrance of the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park and once inside, follow a range of walking trails through the jungle. The path to the Knife’s Edge footbridge leads you to a bridge that joins two sides of a deep gorge and gives you an absolutely thrilling and close-up view of the falling water. If visiting in March-June, prepare to get soaked by the spray!

If this isn’t enough of an adrenaline rush, then definitely book a tour to Livingstone Island, which is located right at the top of the Falls. The tour includes breakfast or lunch on the island and an opportunity to swim in the greatest natural infinity pool in the world, right on the lip of Victoria Falls! The views are incredible and whilst this isn’t a trip for the faint-hearted, it is definitely worthwhile. 

There are plenty of other adrenaline rush activities in Livingstone including bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge, white water rafting down the Zambezi river, or taking a microlight flight over Victoria Falls. If thrill-seeking activities aren’t your thing, then book a game drive or walking safari in the National Park as you’ll get the chance to see many of the ‘Big Five’ animals. 

Make sure to splash out on a meal at the Kubu Restaurant in the Royal Livingstone Hotel which overlooks the Zambezi River. For a comfortable and budget-friendly stay, head to Tabonina Guesthouse in Livingstone which has cozy rooms and a swimming pool.

Victoria Falls, Zambia. Photo by Mog and Dog Travels

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Tanzania is a diverse country that offers something spectacular for everyone, whether you’re interested in wildlife, local culture, or outdoor adventure.

One of the biggest draws to Tanzania is the opportunity to witness the annual wildebeest migration, where millions of wildebeest and their four-legged friends traverse the Serengeti in search of water and food. Visitors can also see lions, leopards, elephants, and giraffes in their natural habitats, with the backdrop of the country’s majestic landscapes. Tanzania is also home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, and a popular destination for the more intrepid traveler.

Another must-see destination in Tanzania is the island of Zanzibar, known for its blue waters and Islamic culture. Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is famous for its historic mosques. For travellers who are looking to dive deeper and learn about local beliefs, visiting a mosque in Zanzibar can be a truly meaningful and impactful experience.

The Streets of Zanzibar. Photo by Avagu Press .
The Streets of Zanzibar. Photo by Avagu Press.

Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo is the perfect place to add to your African bucket list. At this national park, there are two of the coolest activities you can participate in. The first activity is gorilla trekking – where you get up close and personal to gorillas in their natural habitat. It’s only possible to go gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. The permits are expensive, but the cost is worth it since it helps with the conservation efforts and supports the rangers who risk their lives to protect these animals. The gorilla population has slowly been increasing, and tourism is one of the reasons. Read this gorilla trekking packing list to be fully prepared for the trip. 

Another thing to do in Virunga National park is hike the Nyiragongo Volcano.  This is the largest lava lake globally, and it’s magical. Remember when lava lamps were popular in the 90s? Well, real lava is 100x cooler, and it’s a lot of fun to watch the lava crack and pop. 

For all local tips, contact the guide, John-Paul at [email protected]. He is genuine and wants everyone to see the beauty of Goma. You can reach him via email, and he can recommend the best places to eat and where to stay according to our budget.

Photo by Fanny Schertzer, via Wikimedia Commons

Okavango Delta, Botswana

One of the dream destinations to visit in Africa in 2023 is the Okavango Delta in Botswana, considered the jewel in the crown of safaris in Botswana. Okavango Delta is an incredible destination, with abundant wildlife, and part of this is due to the fact that the desert and the delta meet, offering infinite possibilities to explore the natural wonders and among the most diverse wildlife on the planet, making Okavango Delta a perfect destination for land and water safari. One of the best things to do while visiting the Okavango Delta is to go on a mokoro boat tour as the Okavango is probably the best in Africa for water-based safari. Also, the land safari offers the opportunity to see a large variety of species, including the largest population of African Bush elephants on the continent. 

Here you can become familiar with the “Big Five”: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo – and take a peek at cheetahs, meerkats, hippos, Nile crocodiles, and even an animal almost extinct from nature and rare to see, wild dogs. Okavango Delta is located in the Northwest of Botswana and it can be reached by a 4X4 car. Or you can drive to the small regional airport in Moan. If you are looking for an all-inclusive lodge accommodation, the Khwai Experidtions Camp offers all meals, drinks, and game reserves. 

A hippo in Okavanga Delta. Photo by Paula Pins the Planet.

Sao Tome and Principe

Sao Tome and Principe is a small island nation lying off the coast of west Africa, in the Gulf of Guinea. These exotic shores are home to tropical forests, volcanic coastlines, and some of the dreamiest deserted beaches in the world.

Most visitors spend a couple of days on Sao Tome before flying to the smaller, and even more beautiful island of Principe. Of all the places to visit in Sao Tome and Principe, the charming resort of Bom Bom really hits the mark when it comes to the ultimate shoes-off beach life. Bungalows sit overlooking the sea, and you’ll rarely encounter another person strolling along the sand. You can go snorkelling from the shore or take a boat trip to the Bay of Needles to explore wild and remote bays.

Once famed for their cacao production, the “Chocolate Islands” are peppered with the photogenic ruins of old plantations that have been taken over by the forests. You can visit some of these plantations and discover what life was like when they were in operation.

The islands are relatively undeveloped, so dining is usually enjoyed at your hotel or resort. Fresh fish always appears on the menu as it’s an island staple!

Beaches of Sao Tome. Photo by The Conversant Traveller.

Tsingy de Bemaraha, Madagascar

Tsingy de Bemaraha is situated north of Morondava on Madagascar’s west coast. It is one of the most unique national parks due to the immense landscape covered in razor-sharp karst needles standing up to 100 meters tall.

To get to this natural wonder, you need to either rent a driver or drive a 4×4 as the dirt roads are not good enough for normal vehicles. There is an entry fee to enter the park and a mandatory guide fee as you are not allowed to explore the area on your own.

But you will have two eventful days discovering the Little Tsingy and the Big Tsingy. The latter is the tallest one and includes a via ferrata which is amazing – taking you across hanging bridges, through natural tunnels at the bottom of the Tsingy, and climbing all the way to the top of the highest razor-sharp needles for a view you will never forget.

Make sure you pack enough water, food, and snacks in your day hiking backpack so that you have energy throughout the days, and do not forget your camera! Good hiking shoes or boots are also necessary for this adventure.

Tsingy de Bemaraha. Photo by Andalucia Hiking

Harar, Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a fascinating country visit with some of the best cultural attractions in Africa. Those looking to see the Horn of Africa at its most vibrant should put the holy Islamic city of Harar on the top of their Africa-wishlist.

The highlight of visiting Harar is exploring and getting lost in the ancient walled city, or the Jugol. The Jugol is a maze of narrow alleys and streets, and here you’ll see hundreds of mosques, shrines, and a few interesting museums to visit. The Arthur Rimbaud Museum is housed in a handsome old merchant house and is well worth a visit.

Coffee lovers will be in heaven, as Harar is known for growing some of the best beans in the country. If you need something more potent, the Harar Brewery offers tours, and the beer at the clubhouse is always nice and cold.

Harar’s most famous attraction is the Hyena Man, who feeds these wild beasts at one of the city gates every night. Visitors are welcome to join, and for a small fee, you can have the nerve-racking experience of feeding a hyena.
For a unique stay in Harar, give one of the cultural guesthouses in the Jugol a try. The Rowda Waber Guesthouse is just fantastic. Check out Fresh Touch, just outside the City Gate, for tasty Ethiopian food and pretty good pizzas.

A local in Ethiopia with a hyena. Photo by Museum of Wander.

Mauritius Island

For one of the dreamiest destinations in Africa, look no further than Mauritius Island. Located on the southeast coast of Africa, Mauritius is famous for its abundance of picture-perfect beaches, stunning waterfalls, epic mountain peaks, and diverse cultural heritage.

With so many incredible places to visit in Mauritius, it’s recommended to spend at least a week on the island to fully experience what it has to offer. Rent a car to explore the beaches at your own pace. Some of the best ones include Trou aux Biches, La Cuvette, Le Morne and Gris Gris.

Head out to the Black River Gorges national park to trek along the hiking trails in search of panoramic views and hidden waterfalls. Immerse yourself into the island’s history and cultural heritage by strolling along the streets of Port Louis city.
You can also take a boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs, the most popular island in Mauritius, home to powdery white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wide range of watersport activities. If you’re looking for a less touristy island, plan a visit to either Amber Island or Ilot Bernache.
Although most people choose to stay along the coast, I recommend staying at Green Cottage Chamarel mainly due to its panoramic mountain views, excellent value for money and proximity to some of the most unique natural attractions like Chamarel waterfall and Seven Colored Earth geopark.

Mauritius Island. Photo by Let’s Venture Out.

Dakar, Senegal

Senegal’s capital city of Dakar, perched on the westernmost tip of continental Africa, has an unmistakable allure. Its vibrant colors set against a beige desert backdrop, rhythmic local music and melodic calls to prayer, and laid-back hustle and bustle are sure to draw visitors in. 

Start the day with a walk along the Corniche to admire the Mosquée de la Divinité and the African Renaissance Monument. Hit the beach or go surfing at Yoff Beach or Ngor Island. Hire a boat to explore further, visiting Isle des Madeleines for the birds and baobabs, or Île de Gorée for a dark reminder of the region’s slave trade history. 

For dinner, settle in at a beachside patio and enjoy the local staple dish Thieboudienne, a tasty mix of jollof rice, vegetables, and marinated local fish. Accommodations range widely from upscale luxury to cheap and cheerful, but for a mid-range option La Résidence, in the Almadies neighborhood, comes highly recommended.

Those with more time and a sense of adventure can travel further afield to curiously colored Lac Rose (Pink Lake), the artsy seaside community Toubab Dialaw, or even all the way to Kedougou, on the other side of the country, for scenic trekking and a taste of local village life. Travel outside the capital – and for that matter within it – can require patience and a sense of humor as you navigate the informal transportation system and cultural contrasts, but for the mindful traveler, the rewards are well worth it. 

Dakar, Senegal. Photo by Exploring Wild.

Cape Town, South Africa

Nestled comfortably at the bottom of mountains with beautiful beaches surrounding it, Cape Town is an incredible city to visit in South Africa. Table Mountain is the icon of the city, powerfully looming over it like a protective older sibling. You can hike up (a 4-hour medium-strenuous hike) or take the cable car for some awesome views of the city!

If you prefer to have views of the waterfront, you can head to sea level and walk around the V&A Waterfront. You’ll find diverse museums, retail shops, and plenty of places to eat here. There is also the Cape Wheel for a fun Ferris wheel ride to see the city. This is also where you get a boat to Robben Island. The island was the Apartheid-era political prison where Nelson Mandela was a prisoner for over 20 years.

For a truly birds’ eye view of the city, you can take a helicopter tour. It really showcases the beauty of the area. If you want to do some day trips outside the city, you can take a boat to seal Island, climb the Cape of Good Hope (the southernmost point in the world before Antarctica), or even go great white shark diving!

View of Cape Town of Surrounding Mountains

Stellenbosch, South Africa

One of the world’s top wine regions, if it isn’t already, Stellenbosch should be at the top of your list of destinations to visit in 2023. The town, which is just 50 kilometres from Cape Town, is striking enough – with Cape Dutch architecture, tree-lined streets and a hive of cool restaurants and bars that are well worth the time to explore. However, it’s the vineyards in the surrounding region that draws people in. You can’t come to Stellenbosch and not visit a wine farm: there’s the wine, of course, showcased on extensive tasting menus, but the farms themselves are beautiful – often sporting vast vineyards and lush gardens for you to explore. 

The Waterford Estate does a decadent wine and chocolate pairing, while Stellenbosch Hills goes full traditional and pairs wines with biltong. Be sure to visit Delaire Graff, Jordan and Boschendal – three other standout wine estates. This is South Africa – full of diverse nature to explore – so be sure to spend some time at the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve. This mountainous reserve is a hiker’s delight, but if that all sounds a little energetic, there are plenty of relaxed riverside strolls for you to enjoy too. Keep an eye out for the prolific local wildlife hidden amidst the colourful fynbos – including berg adders, Cape cobras and Cape sugarbirds. 

Stellenbosch landscape. Photo by The Discovery Of

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger is one of the best game reserves to go on a safari in – it’s massive! Even Google describes the park as an “enormous game reserve” because of its massive size. Located about four and a half hours east of Johannesburg and an hour north of Swaziland, Kruger is one of the top destinations in South Africa.

Kruger National Park has a variety of landscapes – from grassy plains to dense trees – making the variety of animals here immeasurable. With 11 entrances to the park, you have your choice of where to go. The most popular area (and the area with the most animals) is the southern section of the park. Many of the safari guides communicate with each other in regards to where the animals are so that visitors can see as many as possible. It made tracking a pride of lions much easier, and we were able to sneak a peek at the elusive leopard.

There are a number of places to stay within Kruger National Park, but for a more luxurious option, you can stay at a private game reserve. Lion Sands Sabi Sands was an incredible experience with hippos and water buffalo joining you at the river at breakfast!

Which one of these dream destinations do you hope to visit soon? Let me know in the comments!

Pin “Best Destinations in Africa to Visit” for Later!

Best Places to Visit in Africa
Best Places to Visit in Africa
Best Places to Visit in Africa

3 thoughts on “23 Best Places to Visit in Africa”

  1. What a great round up! Travelling to new places and Chefchaouen was the highlight of my trip to Morocco. Thank you so much for including my contribution – I am honoured to be part of this post.

  2. There are so many places in this list that I didn’t know about! Egypt has been on my bucketlist since I was a child though so I can’t wait to go there someday.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top