Best Countries To Visit In Africa - Visiting 20 Best Destinations In Africa

Africa, a big continent with 54 countries, offers a lot of intriguing places to explore, from the hidden marvels of Egypt to the wide deserts or a thriving South African republic.

The world's second-largest continent has many stunning spots as well as a fascinating animal and plant world. The best countries to visit in Africa have much to discover; places that are both distinctive and novel, allowing anyone's wants and travel preferences to be met.

This continent is home to a diverse range of cultures and languages. It offers a great combination of old and new since many age-old traditions and rituals continue to exist to this day.

Each of the 54 mainland and island countries has its history, traditions, and culture. Along with wildlife and natural beauty, this makes visiting Africa increasingly appealing.

South Africa

South Africa, officially known as the Republic of South Africa, is a vast country (1.22 million km² / 470,000 mi²). The continent of South Africa is surrounded by Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Swaziland and encloses the kingdom of Lesotho. It is bounded by two enormous oceans, the Indian Ocean to the East and the southern sea of the Atlantic Ocean to the South. it's also one of the rare African countries that is LGBTQ+-friendly.

Cape Town is the most beautiful and South Africa's best holiday destination, with activities such as climbing, windsurfing, swimming and sunbathing, shopping, and diving.

In addition to Cape Town, there is Johannesburg, South Africa's biggest and wealthiest metropolis. This location is home to one of the world's largest diamond mines, which produces exceedingly brilliant, sumptuous, and valuable diamonds.

The country's rich cultural tapestry is captivating. Photo by robnaw - stock.adobe.com

South Africa also has a diverse flora. You should visit Table Mountain National Park, where you can see the unique Baobab tree found only in Africa. You will be amazed by millions of flamingos covering a corner of the sky, as well as the bewildering sight of other African animals such as lions, elephants, rhinoceros, and bison. 

You should actively equip yourself with warm clothing, gloves, scarves, caps, and so on. The climate here is pleasant, but the temperature swings during the day.

Tanzania

Tanzania's full name is the United Republic of Tanzania, which was founded in 1964 from the two populations on the mainland (Republic of Tanganyika) and on the sea islands (Republic of Zanzibar).

According to many who have visited Tanzania, the best time of year to visit is from June to September, when Tanzania has the coolest and most pleasant climate of the year.

Tanzania is renowned for the Great Migration, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater. Photo by Sabine - stock.adobe.com

Mount Kilimanjaro - Africa's highest peak, Kilimanjaro, is one of the most well-known mountains in the world at 5,899 metres (about 19,353 feet) high. The place offers endless opportunities for adventure holidaying.

Because Tanzania's geography, climate, and culture are incredibly diverse and rich, no matter what time of year you choose to visit, you will have wonderful experiences.

Tourists consider Zanzibar Island to be the most beautiful spot in Tanzania, as well as the most worthwhile trip on the East African country's vacation itinerary. Zanzibar Island is located in the Indian Ocean and has lovely white sand beaches.

The Stone Town of Zanzibar, also known as Mji Mkongwe, is another worth-visiting destination. The little village of stone with historic cottages close together is quite serene that will make you fall in love.

If you visit Tanzania between January and April, this is the best time to explore Ruaha National Park, the largest one in Tanzania. To enjoy the finest wildlife experience, this is the place to visit in Africa. You can view the incredibly rich fauna such as lions, leopards, elephants, jackals, bat-eared foxes, and so on.

Namibia

It is a nation in southern Africa, with the Atlantic Ocean on its West coast. Namibia covers an area of 825,615 km² (318,772 mi²) and is rich in natural resources ranging from arid plains to scenic peaks.

This is one of the safest countries in Africa to visit and will undoubtedly provide guests with the most novel and exciting sensations during their holiday to Africa. Sossusvlei is perhaps the perfect attraction for solo travellers in Namibia, and maybe all of Africa.

Namibia offers breathtaking desert landscapes and sandboarding opportunities. Photo by Christian - stock.adobe.com

When you visit Namibia, you will be able to experience the natural splendour of the golden dunes firsthand. Forget about the green colour of nature's lungs for a while and consider another natural beauty.

Coming here, you will see firsthand the spectacle of Big Daddy, a 300 metres (984 feet) high dune that nature has given Namibia and has become a proud icon of the country.

Namib desert, often known as the sand castle, is one of the oldest deserts in the world. True to its name (Namib means “the vast place” in Khoekhoegowab), even with many tourists exploring the place around, you still feel like you are in the middle of nowhere.

Skeleton Coast is the world's most beautiful but deserted coastline, stretching 1,500 kilometres (932 miles) and covering an area of approximately 20,000 square kilometres (7,722 square miles). The wide, wild, and rugged beach stretch from Swakop to the Kunene River is a sight to behold and experience.

Furthermore, it is frequently shrouded in mist from the cold air of the Atlantic Ocean combined with the hot air of the Namib Desert. Try walking on the beach with bare feet; you will feel the heat, but you will also feel the itching caused by the sand - a sensation that you will never forget.

Egypt

Egypt, a transcontinental country, is located in North Africa, the Middle East, and Southwest Asia. Therefore, it’s no wonder that the country is a cultural melting pot of numerous areas and nations.

Egypt has and always been an appealing place for travellers to uncover the world's secrets, tales, and amazing heritages, owing to its possession of the oldest human civilisation. When you visit this most visited country in Africa, you will be captivated by its unique and gorgeous architecture.

Felucca sailing boat near the shores of Aswan, Egypt. Photo by Calin Stan - stock.adobe.com

Egypt has a typical Mediterranean climate, with an average daily temperature of roughly 18 - 20 degrees Celsius, and the majority of the months are hot and dry. During the summer, temperatures in Egypt can reach 40 degrees Celsius during the day and drop below 10 degrees Celsius at night.

And you should avoid visiting Egypt between June and August since it is the hottest time of year. The temperature in the North of Egypt, for an instance, can reach 40 degrees Celsius throughout the day. Not only that, sandstorms can occur, causing dusty streets, traffic bottlenecks, and water scarcity.

Hotels in Egypt vary greatly in terms of price and service quality, so you can select the most appropriate lodging for yourself based on your demands and budget. There are many popular options in Cairo, Sharm el-Sheikh, and Luxor City.

Located in Dahshur, the red pyramid in Dahshur is probably the most famous place in Egypt that you should not miss because this pyramid is unique in Egypt. It has a glossy limestone on the outside that is still undamaged and undeformed, making it a curious and impressive sight for visitors.

Zambia

Zambia is a tiny African country in Southern Africa. Despite the lack of economic development, the area is blessed with breathtaking natural scenery, an abundant environment, and numerous unique construction. Furthermore, travellers are drawn to the beautiful quiet lifestyle that exists here.

Victoria, which stands towering on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe River, is regarded as the most beautiful waterfall in the world and is regarded by the locals as a worldly paradise. 

David Livingstone named this natural marvel after the Queen of England, Victoria in honour of her. But the native Tongans still call it Mosioa Tunya, which means “the smoke that thunders.”

If you have the opportunity to visit, you should not miss the Victoria Falls. Photo by ggfoto - stock.adobe.com

Victoria Falls is made up of four waterfalls that are separated by tiny islands and coral reefs. The water billows like a white storm amid the huge expanse, combining with the shining sunshine to form a spectacular rainbow image.

The old mansion of Shiwa Ngandu is ideal for people who have a strong interest in historical culture.

The historic home is constructed of brick and has a very wide campus with an elegantly planned view of the lake surrounded by lush natural trees.

Visitors who come to this best place to travel in Africa will feel as if they are returning to an exceedingly wild and fascinating old existence.

Kenya

Kenya is located in East Africa, near the equator, and borders the Indian Ocean to the east. The North is mostly desert, whereas the South and East coast are fertile and home to the majority of the inhabitants.

The nation is hailed as the quintessential African safari destination. Photo by Maciej Czekajewski - stock.adobe.com

Kenya's climate is regionally different despite its being near the equator. Coastal Kenya has an equatorial climate that is hot and humid while the highlands have a milder climate and more rain.

The North is quite hot and arid. Meanwhile, because of the high hilly terrain, the climate in the South of Kenya is relatively cold and pleasant.

July to early October is considered the best time of year to witness the massive animal migrations, particularly in the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

A journey to Kenya promises to elicit new feelings due to its diverse geographical characteristics. If landscapes, architectural works, and blue beaches define Asian and European countries, deserts and wild animals define Kenya.

The most impressive thing about this South African holiday destination is the possibility to visit several protected sites and meet with diverse cultures.

Aberdare National Park is Kenya's most famous tourist attraction. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to marvel at the breathtaking natural surroundings, where you can find magnificent waterfalls and glaciers.

Aberdare is a typical national park with a diverse plant and animal system. This is where Treetops Lodge is located. It is built atop trees, from which you can watch herds of elephants, antelopes, and buffaloes drag one another through the grasslands.

Botswana

Botswana, formally the Republic of Botswana, is a country in mainland South Africa, with Gaborone as its capital and largest city. It can be said that tourism plays an extremely important role in Botswana.

The diversity of ecosystems, uncommon flora and wildlife, natural vistas, and cultural traits of the people here are reasons why an increasing number of visitors to one of the most visited countries in Africa.

Tourists will have a chance to experience elephant watching in Botswana. Photo by Tiago Fernandez - stock.adobe.com

The climate in this lovely nation is separated into two seasons: the dry season, which lasts from April to October and has very high temperatures, and the rainy season, which lasts from November to March the following year.

The best time for travellers to visit and enjoy the region is from the conclusion of the dry season to the start of the rainy season. The weather at this time is very favourable for outdoor activities.

The Okavango Delta is one of the world's biggest deltas and has been rated one of Africa's most beautiful sites. Many hidden gems are waiting to be discovered in this place. Join a wilderness excursion to discover nature on a traditional mokoro boat and then camp here overnight.

Morocco

A captivating North African country that blends ancient traditions with modern influences. Photo by saiko3p - stock.adobe.com

The Kingdom of Morocco is located in Northwestern Africa, bordered on two sides by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. In Morocco, visitors can spend a relaxing week on the luxurious islets of Marrakesh, Fès or Rabat, or shop in the colourful markets of Morocco - one of the best destinations in Africa.

Morocco's climate is highly rich and diversified due to its geographical position. Every season you visit here will provide you with amazing experiences. Morocco's most peaceful and pleasant climate occurs between March and May.

If you have done extensive study on the noteworthy places in Morocco, you will find that the majority of them are located in the city's old town region. So, for your trip, you should arrange lodging in the centre.

If you want to experience what the Sahara desert is like, make a trip to Ouarzazate City in Morocco. Because of its proximity to the desert, it is known as “the Saharan Door”.

Rwanda

You'll find lots to see and do in Rwanda, a small landlocked nation in Central East Africa's Great Lakes Area. It is known for towns like Kigali, Gisenyi, and Ruhengeri.

This is the best place to visit Africa for travellers since it is the confluence of aboriginal tribes. Each has its own diverse cultural hues, rigorously conserved nature, and a stable political framework.

The Volcanoes National Park (Parc National des Volcans), located in Northeastern, is where you can find the spectacular Virungas Mountains and lovely rainforest slopes. Virungas Hill is just three-hour away from Kigali International Airport and is home to golden monkeys and half of the world's wild gorillas.

One of the most amazing experiences in gorilla country is trekking over volcanic hills and encountering mountain gorillas along the route. With the lead expert trackers and guides, tourists get to see the endangered species in their natural habitat, a rare and unforgettable sight.

Rwanda is famous for its chain of Volcanoes. Photo by Dennis - stock.adobe.com

Kigali, Rwanda's capital, is a dynamic city where history, architecture, and culture collide. Formerly a country where travellers were terrified for their safety, the city is rapidly becoming an appealing destination for tourists and investors from around the world.

Local markets selling fruits, vegetables, cereals, wood, jewellery, and handicrafts are a must-see for an unforgettable cultural and exploring experience in Rwanda. Some traditional foods you should try are Ibiraya (Rwandan fries) or Matoke (bananas fried with onions and seasoned with salt).

Mozambique

Mozambique, like other countries and territories, offers several appealing and well-known tourist sites awaiting your discovery, complete with breathtaking natural beauty, delectable cuisine, and exciting recreational opportunities. The Mozambican people have a fascinating and distinct cultural beauty.

When you come to Maputo River, Mozambique, the locals will show you a unique area, which is the Elephant Sanctuary (Reserva Especial de Maputo). As the name implies, this is a natural habitat built to protect wild elephants.

Not just this species, but you can also find white rhino species coexisting happily with the elephants here. If you want to get closer to nature and feel diverse emotions, come to Mozambique and visit the reserve.

A breathtaking sunset on the Tofo beach of Mozambique. Photo by demerzel21 - stock.adobe.com

If you get the chance to set foot in Mozambique, you can't miss the historic fortification on the island that was erected during the country's period as a Portuguese colony.

Similar to other best places to travel in Africa, Mozambique provides not only historical beauty value but also the opportunity to hear a tale of the country's growth.

Furthermore, just a few steps away from the stronghold is a well-known artisan market. You can not only experience a traditional Mozambican culture here, but you can also sample a variety of highly appealing fresh meals.

Tunisia

Enjoy the beauty of a coastal town in the Pearl of the Mediterranean. Photo by Curioso.Photography - stock.adobe.com

Tunisia, one of the best destinations in Africa in the North, provides an incredible variety of experiences. It is located on the Mediterranean coast of North Africa, between Algeria and Libya.

Tunisia's Roman-era architecture, such as those of El Jem and Carthage, is beautifully maintained, and the capital Tunis is the cultural and gastronomic destination you'd expect from a big metropolis. Furthermore, Tunisia is rich in ancient ruins that are millennia-old and relatively unknown to tourists.

Thanks to the great mild weather and the developing tourist sector, many Europeans travel here to relax on the beautiful dunes or to sightsee the colourful coastal cities of Sfax, Sousse, and Tunis.

You can also sunbathe and enjoy the beach ambience in resort cities like Hammamet along the Mediterranean coast. The Sahara desert to the South boasts several magnificent desert landscapes with charming Berber communities.

Sidi Bou Said has Greek beauty with its white-domed buildings and blue-painted doorways. Visitors come to enjoy the panoramic views of the Mediterranean and explore the many art galleries, boutiques, and open-air cafes. Visit the Neo-Moorish mansion of Baron Rodolphe d'Erlanger to learn more about the history of Sidi Bou Said's distinctive architecture.

Uganda

Uganda is a nation in the African continent and this is one of the cheapest countries in Africa to visit. You'll find lots to see and do in places like Entebbe, Kampala, and Mbarara.

This country has the world’s youngest population and is the most densely populated area in Africa. Plus, it also has the highest concentration of primates in the world.

Mount Rwenzori National Park in Uganda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its spectacular and distinctive natural terrain, as well as its rich and diversified flora and wildlife.

During your Uganda trip, you will be able to view the spectacular natural scenery of jagged high mountains, white waterfalls, broad grasslands, and clear lakes, as well as direct observations of forest elephants, chimps, and mountain monkeys.

Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting traditional villages. Photo by alfotokunst - stock.adobe.com

You should also pay a visit to Mount Elgon National Park. The park is located on the border of Uganda and Kenya and where over 300 bird species and a variety of fauna, including wild buffalo, monkeys, and antelope, reside. Elgon visitors will be able to explore the mountain paths to marvel at the stunning natural beauty.

Mauritius

The Republic of Mauritius is a volcanic island republic in the Southern Indian Ocean, some 900 kilometres (about 600 miles) east of Madagascar. Mauritius is noted for its lengthy history of events and ups and downs, and it is the only country in the world where the Dodo bird has ever resided.

Mauritius is well-known for its beautiful beaches, but it also has a wild side! Hiking through the forests and natural areas will lead you to picturesque rivers, rapids, and waterfalls. Because of that, this area is known as one of the best island destinations in Africa, and perhaps, the whole world.

Walking into its hilly interior is thus an unforgettable experience, with flocks of vividly colourful birds soaring above the rainforest canopy. Steep canyons and beautiful waterfalls are hidden among the lush greenery.

Nothing beats a helicopter trip above the Le Morne Brabant. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the vista is ever more magnificent and calls for endless images and video recordings. Air Mauritius, the national airline, has fantastic deals on this unique voyage.

Le Morne Brabant is one of the reasons why many people are drawn to Mauritius. Photo by Alexey Pelikh - stock.adobe.com

The nation is recognised for its delectable meals from many cuisines due to its diverse population and distinct cultural history. In the serene, tranquil fishing communities sprinkled by the sea, you can sample some French, Chinese, or East African-influenced meals.

Nigeria

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is located in West Africa and has a population of about 218 million people. The country is still not well developed in terms of tourism, so it is regarded as the one of cheapest countries in Africa to visit, but there are still some appealing tourist destinations.

Eleko beach in Lagos is less crowded than Elegushi, Bar, and Alpha beaches. Thus, this attraction offers peace of mind for those seeking privacy or a break from the hustle and bustle. This beach is very clean, and there are many bamboo huts along the beach where you can retreat to relax.

Lagos, the commercial capital, is a bustling metropolis with a mix of old and new. Photo by Mujib - stock.adobe.com

Makoko is a small fishing village on a lagoon next to the Atlantic Ocean that was built and formed more than 100 years ago. It is built on the water and houses over 200,000 people in rickety wooden houses.

The people here make their living by catching fish in this river. Travelling to Makoko town will allow you to experience the sensation of floating on the river and learn how to catch fish like the Nigerians.

Another worthwhile destination is Obudu Mountain Resort, where you can take the cable car to the top to admire the fresh green and cool nature surroundings. Or visit the Obudu Cattle Ranch to try delicious dairy meals.

Seychelles

Seychelles is located 1,500 kilometres (about 900 miles) east of the African mainland. Opposed to Nigeria, it is the continent's least populated country and also the smallest in size. Seychelles is made up of 115 mostly deserted islands and is bordered by stunning Indian Ocean seas.

The archipelago is known for its palm-lined silver sand beaches, quiet coves surrounded by granite boulders, misty wooded summits, and coral reefs stretching out into the warm ocean. Some of the best places to visit in Africa include Anse Source d'Argent and Anse Soleil,

Seychelles tourism entices travellers with exquisite days under tropical heat, velvet evenings under a starry Southern sky, intriguing people, and engaging Creole culture.

You can find many beautiful beaches like this one in Seychelles. Photo by Unclesam - stock.adobe.com

Because of its isolated position, Seychelles is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with the majority of them currently protected as nature reserves. Offshore, Seychelles' brilliant coral reefs and plentiful marine life make it a must-see for scuba diving or snorkelling.

You'll be spoiled for choice whether you choose the three main islands of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. In addition, there are numerous adventurous options: climbing into Mahé Island's lush mountainous hinterland, snorkelling with the monsters at Shark Bank, and more

And if that’s not enough, you can go to Cape Verde, which is on the other side of Africa. The island country offers stunning coastlines for all sorts of holiday-makers. The dreamy blue sky and crystalline turquoise water are a recipe for a wonderful time.

Algeria

Explore the well-preserved city of Timgad. Photo by Leonid Andronov - stock.adobe.com

Algeria is a North African country that ranks fifth in terms of international tourists in 2019, behind Egypt, Morocco, South Africa and Tunisia. It is the biggest country on the African continent, recognised for its principal tourist attractions,

As a result, tourist and hotel infrastructure organisations recently announced the formation of a national coalition to revive Algeria's tourism industry and attract more international visitors.

Most notable among the attractions is the Sahara Desert, the world's second-largest desert and one of the best destinations in Africa. There are many ways to discover this great desert: by hiking, on camel’s back, or even camel trekking and 4x4.

It is also a popular destination for those interested in prehistoric and ancient ruins. Visitors can also appreciate the pleasant Mediterranean climate and the people's kindness.

Ethiopia

Ethiopia is Africa's promised country, with breathtaking natural beauty, pristine wildlife, and appealing food. If you are tired of the hustle and bustle, this is the most ideal destination for some day hiking.

When it comes to the best destinations in Africa, you will have a different perspective if you visit here. Being the 'hottest place on the planet,” you can find many wonderful experiences from visiting the lava lakes, volcanoes, etc.

Hike through the dramatic mountain range of Simien Mountains in Ethiopia. Photo by evenfh - stock.adobe.com

The Danakil Depression is an exceedingly stunning tourist site in this gorgeous country. Terrific hot springs rich in minerals provide a major supply of water for the locals. Women of the Afar tribe used to harvest water from this dreadful hot spring.

Lalibela, a major tourist resort in southern Ethiopia, has 11 Christian churches. These churches were constructed around 800 years ago. The Bieta Giyorgis church, constructed from a 12 metres (39 feet) high rock, is the most impressive of the complex.

Malawi

Malawi, although having gorgeous lakes and wild and lyrical natural beauty, is still a country where few people come to visit and tour. Visiting Malawi during the actual vacation season is nothing to worry about.

You won't have to stand in line to buy tickets to tourist sites or wait in line for hours to be served at a restaurant either. Instead of seeing visitors swarming the place like in other regions, you are at ease viewing the picturesque sights in peace.

Beautiful scenery on Lake Malawi. Photo by sabino.parente - stock.adobe.com

Nyika National Park is an important component of Malawi's wildlife reserve effort. This park, which was established in 1965, encompasses 3,107 square kilometres (1,200 square miles) of flat grasslands and woods. 

More particularly, there is a large Nyika Plateau inside the park, where there are valleys and hills interspersed with magnificent wildflowers. Furthermore, this best place to travel in Africa is home to many uncommon animals such as antelope, zebra, and wild antelope.

Swaziland

Swaziland is a landlocked country that is quite tiny. South Africa surrounds this country in the North, West, South, and southeast, while Mozambique borders it in the Northeast. The country is named after the "Swazi," a Bantu language-speaking people from southern Africa.

Mantenga Nature Reserve and Cultural Village provide tourists to Swaziland with a unique opportunity to see Swaziland's culture as well as the local natural surroundings.

The nature reserve is made up of a mix of medium and high terrain, with Eucalypt woodland covering one-third of the reserve. The chirping of birds, the roar of baboons, and the buzz of the villagers' drums are the most noticeable sounds when visiting this location.

Experience the vibrant Swazi culture through traditional dances and music. Photo by silvye - stock.adobe.com

Aside from the villages, one of the must-see destinations is the Mantenga waterfall, which is one of the most famous and accessible waterfalls in Swaziland. It’s just a 15 minutes walk from the village, so why not visit one of the most majestic and best places to travel in Africa?

Lesotho

Lesotho is Africa's Southernmost nation, surrounded by the Republic of South Africa. Lesotho is nicknamed the “Kingdom of Heaven” because it is the only autonomous country whose entire area is 1,000 metres (3,180 feet) above sea level.

Not only that, it is the only African country where practically the whole area is covered with snow for a brief period in winter. Snowstorms also occur in the highlands. As a result, since independence from the British colonialists, the people's lives in this country have been extremely impoverished.

Lesotho's Sai Pass offers a spectacular sunrise view. Photo by Louis-Michel DESERT - stock.adobe.com

To attract more tourists, they have developed entertainment activities that are no less modern than those seen in other amusement parks.

When you come here as a visitor, you will be able to travel the mountains on the famed Basotho horses. There’s nothing like reaching the mountain peak after overcoming the twists and mountain slopes. Taking a picture while riding a warhorse on top of the mountain like a musketeer is a good story to tell everyone back home.

Come to Malealea - one of the finest places to visit Africa and Lesotho if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is the place to engage yourself in the culture of the ethnic people, and mingle with musical instruments in the isolated, tranquil hamlet.

We hope the top 20 Best Countries to Visit in Africa will help you plan your vacation to Africa. You only need to thoroughly research the route, plan your finances and personal things, and choose a trustworthy companion to fully enjoy this beautiful vacation.

Vy Nguyen