best african country to visit in december

Best African Countries to Visit in December: A Journey of Discovery

• April 19, 2023

Explore the best African countries to visit in December for an unforgettable journey of discovery. Discover the unique beauty, rich culture, and diverse wildlife of Africa during the festive season. Plan your December getaway to Africa with this comprehensive guide.

What better way to usher in the new year than a journey of discovery to the continent of Africa? With its diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes, there’s so much on offer in Africa. From the breathtaking mountain ranges of Ethiopia to the vibrant cities of South Africa, there are so many places that should be on your African bucket list.

But maybe you’re stumped as to where you should start. After all, with 54 countries to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow it down. Don’t worry! We’ve done the research for you and rounded up our top picks for the best African countries to visit in December.

Whether you’re looking for incredible wildlife experiences or stunning beaches, we’ve got you covered. In this article, you’ll find all the information you need about what each destination has to offer, from recommended itineraries to safety measures and even budget tips . Let’s get planning!

Overview of Top African Countries for December Travel

The continent of Africa is a treasure trove of unique cultures, stunning landscapes and incredible experiences for any traveler. December is the perfect time to explore this diverse region – its warm temperatures, festivals and beautiful wildlife viewing opportunities make it the ideal month for an unforgettable journey of discovery.

Each country has its own drawcard – from the vibrant markets of Morocco to the stunning beaches of Mozambique, there are so many reasons to visit Africa in December. Here are some of the best African countries to check out:

• Tanzania – with the Serengeti National Park offering superb game viewing opportunities, a visit here will be an unforgettable experience.
• South Africa – with its stunning coastline, vibrant cities and unparalleled wine region, South Africa has something for everyone.
• Kenya – with its spectacular wildlife reserves and friendly people, Kenya is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa.
• Namibia – from towering sand dunes to vast desert plains and some of the best wildlife viewing in southern Africa, Namibia is an explorer’s paradise.

From vibrant cities to untouched wildernesses, December is a great time of year to explore all that Africa has to offer. So why not start planning your journey today?

The Best Beaches in Mozambique

Best African Countries to Visit in December

Mozambique is home to some of the best beaches in Africa, making it an ideal destination for a December vacation. From white sand beaches and warm turquoise waters to stunning coastal cliffs, Mozambique’s coastlines are nothing short of breathtaking.

Let’s take a look at some of the top beaches you should visit in this tropical paradise:

• Tofo Beach : located in Inhambane Province, Tofo Beach promises a beautiful ocean view and plenty of activities for travelers. The beach is known for its excellent kitesurfing and diving opportunities, as well as its fresh seafood restaurants.
• Barra Beach : situated at the entrance of the Quirimbas Archipelago, Barra Beach features powdery white sand and crystal clear waters. There are plenty of activities to choose from here too, such as fishing trips, dolphin watching tours and sailing excursions.
• Vilanculos Beach : known for its rich coral reef and vibrant marine life, Vilanculos Beach is a great spot for snorkeling or SCUBA diving. It’s also ideal for basking in the sun or having a barbecue right on the beach!

Experience the Natural Beauty of Mauritius

Now let’s talk about Mauritius. This island nation is full of tropical beauty , with an average temperature of 28°C and plenty of beaches to explore. But that’s not all, there are also lagoons and coral reefs, plus a unique landscape of volcanoes, rainforests, and waterfalls.

In December, Mauritius is in the middle of the dry season which means you won’t have to worry about getting stuck in a downpour during your visit. It’s also the perfect time to experience some of the country’s best outdoor activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling, hiking, kayaking and more!

What’s more, with its diverse culture — rooted in African heritage but with French and Indian influences — you can explore a range of cultures through music, art galleries, workshops and events. The locals will be more than happy to share their culture with you and will make your trip even more memorable!

There’s so much to see and do in Mauritius during December. You’ll get the chance to take in its natural beauty as well as immerse yourself into its vibrant culture—all while making some unforgettable memories!

Adventure Through the Serengeti in Tanzania

If you’re looking for an exciting and unique adventure, why not take a journey through the stunning Serengeti National Park in Tanzania? This incredible national park is known for its abundant wildlife, including the great wildebeest migration, which takes place between June and October. December is the perfect time to explore this magnificent landscape as temperatures are milder, vegetation is thick, and the animals are coming down from their summer migration.

Explore a Unique Wildlife Ecosystem

Tanzania’s Serengeti offers a uniquely diverse ecosystem that you won’t find anywhere else. In addition to the wildebeest migration, you can spot predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards and hyenas, as well as plenty of other incredible wildlife like elephants, zebras and giraffes. You may even get a chance to encounter some of Africa’s most exotic birds!

Safari Experiences Tailored to Your Needs

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or an animal lover at heart, Tanzania has something for everyone. You can choose from a variety of safari experiences tailor-made to fit your needs and preferences—explore the plains on foot or take a game drive through the park in an open-air vehicle and get up close with some of Africa’s most majestic inhabitants.

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park offers one of the best December holiday destinations for those who want to experience an unforgettable African adventure. With its abundant wildlife and spectacular scenery, exploring the great wildebeest migration in Tanzania makes for an unforgettable experience!

Take a Cultural Tour in Ethiopia

You’ll want to add Ethiopia to your itinerary if you’re looking for a culturally immersive experience on your African trip in December. Ethiopia has one of the oldest civilizations in the world, with records of settlements dating back more than 3,000 years.

Historic Sites

The ancient capital of this country is just one of the many historic sites to explore when you’re here. The city was founded during the early Aksumite kingdom and by many, it is said to be the home of the Arc of Covenant. Tourists can also explore some of the old churches and monasteries that still stand, giving us a glimpse into Ethiopia’s history.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

This country has something for architectural and religious enthusiasts alike — Lalibela is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its 11 rock-cut churches from the 12th century. You’ll also find some spectacular tombs, fortresses and other cultural attractions worth exploring in Ethiopia.

Head over to Debre Damo Monastery—one of the oldest monasteries in Africa which sits atop an outpost surrounded by cliffs—for a unique cultural experience in Ethiopia. Be sure to take an insight into everyday life when you visit markets or villages around this country too!

Explore Cape Town’s Vibrant Nightlife

Why not explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Cape Town? One of South Africa’s most beautiful cities, Cape Town is home to a variety of bars, pubs and nightclubs. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or an all-night party, there’s something to suit everyone.

Explore the trendy food and drink scene with a visit to popular hotspots like Kirstenbosch Gardens or Long Street. Or grab a drink at one of the city’s famous craft breweries, like Devil’s Peak Brewing Co. or Drifter Brewing Co., and enjoy spectacular views of Table Mountain while you sip on local brews.

If you’re looking for something a bit more raucous, check out some of the city’s hottest clubs. For example, the upper-class Shimmy Beach Club is known for its banging tunes and chilled vibe; get ready for drinks by the pool in this luxurious club that overlooks Table Bay. Club 27 hosts popular themed nights every weekend, as well as lots of special events—head here for pop music fans looking to make an entrance!

In Conclusion, Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or a little bit of both, December is the perfect time to explore Africa. With its beautiful nature, fascinating wildlife, and diverse cultures, there’s something for everyone in this continent. From the Serengeti in Tanzania to the mystical Atlas Mountains in Morocco, you’re sure to find an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. So, why not take the plunge and discover what this captivating continent has to offer? Africa awaits!

Tags: Africa

Meet Saud, the founder of The Budget Traveling. Fueled by a passion for adventure and a savvy financial mindset, Saud envisioned a platform that makes travel affordable for everyone. With a background in finance and a love for exploration, he's on a mission to redefine budget-friendly travel. Join Saud on a journey where every destination becomes accessible without compromising the thrill of discovery. Welcome to The Budget Traveling community, where affordable adventure meets curated exploration.

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Our Top Destinations For African Travel in December

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December means warm summer weather in the Southern Hemisphere, which also coincides with some of the best safari, beach and holiday times. Africa is home to some incredible places to visit and as most of Africa’s top destinations book out over a year in advance, such is the huge demand and limited availability of African travel, booking well in advance is always a good idea. So if your travel bug is itching – here are our top 5 destinations for African travel in December.

1. Sabi Sand, Kruger National Park – South Africa

The pinnacle of South Africa’s safari offering, this private reserve shares an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park and offers the best wildlife experience in Southern Africa. The Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve is famed for its intimate leopard sightings, if these elusive spotted creatures are on your sightings list, there is nowhere else better on earth to witness them in all their glory.

Our favourite property: Londolozi

The Sabi Sand has an embarrassment of award-winning lodges, and you would be hard-pressed to find better anywhere. Among our personal favourites is Londolozi.

Londolozi’s name comes from the Zulu meaning “protector of all living things”. This reserve truly embraces its namesake’s philosophy as one of South Africa’s pioneers in long-term nature conservation. Home to the Big 5 and renowned as a predator’s paradise, Londolozi allows guests to observe wildlife on bush walks and twice-daily game drives. The different camps and lodges cater for a variety of guests from honeymooners to families. Greet the day with a yoga class in the bush or wade in swimming pools overlooking the landscape beyond. Dine al fresco while the canopy of stars in the night sky twinkles overhead.

2. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Gorilla Trekking is a once in a lifetime opportunity and Volcanoes National Park is the “birthplace” of gorilla trekking. Rwanda is home to over half of the world’s mountain gorillas and possibly the best place to view these animals. Planning a trip to Rwanda would normally have to be done between eight & twelve months in advance – due to the high demand and the low volume of trekking permits that are issued. Take advantage of this unique opportunity and book your gorilla trekking now!

Our Favourite property: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest provides enriching experiences and enchanting escapes; immersed in raw, Rwandan beauty that awakes a wild spirit of adventure. An intimate collection of free-standing forest lodges and spacious suites sit suspended over sprawling, fragrant gardens – enticing sleepy explorers. Attractive amenities range from inviting fireplaces, viewing decks, al fresco showers and standalone baths; to secluded gardens, large lounges, private catering kitchens, personal chefs and even a butler! Breathe easy as you enjoy a seamless connection with the natural world from your own secluded sanctuary. Amongst the swaying eucalyptus trees, framed by atmospheric volcanic vistas – you will find that the One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is more than just a place to sleep.

3. Cape Town, South Africa

Among the very best places for African travel in December is Cape Town. This magical destination is the playground of leisure-lovers, adventurer seekers and jetsetters alike. Famous for its flat-topped mountains, white sandy beaches, bountiful vineyards, waddling penguins and bustling waterfront, it’s not hard to see why the Mother City is consistently ranked among the world’s best cities. There is so much to see and do in Cape Town that every stay leaves visitors longing to return.

Our favourite property: Camissa House

The options are endless, but our favourite is undoubtedly Camissa House . Winner of South Africa’s Leading Design Hotel in the 2021 World Travel Awards, it boasts possibly the most captivating views of Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean and the city of Cape Town.

A truly extraordinary luxury boutique hotel, Camissa House celebrates the true essence of Cape Town, the unique floral diversity and natural beauty it holds. Nothing has been overlooked in designing this modern masterpiece. Camissa House has eight rooms with a maximum of 16 guests, so you can be assured an intimate, secluded affair. Guests have a dedicated butler, tour desk, pool, roof-top bar and opulent high tea – you could be forgiven for not wanting to leave the hotel at all. The true spectacle, however, is found in Cape Town’s lauded diversions; majestic Table Mountain at your doorstep, the idyllic beaches, award-winning restaurants and scenic Winelands Region.

4. Zanzibar, Tanzania

The superb beaches and warm, tranquil waters of Zanzibar await you. With a range of luxury seaside resorts to choose from, it creates the ultimate island getaway. Made up of a chain of islands off the coast of Tanzania this is a tropical paradise. Centuries ago, the island was an important area for the spice trade, before falling under the rule of Arab sultans who reigned over the islands for several years, integrating with the local Swahili. This mix of cultures creates a fascinating essence that you can feel in the cuisine, architecture and local customs.

Stone Town, littered with Indo-Arabian architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When not languidly lounging on the island’s impeccable beachfront, visitors can wander the narrow labyrinth of streets that make up the town. Or venture to the Forodhani Gardens’ night market on the waterfront across from the House of Wonders, and taste the local street food.

Our favourite property: Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa

Situated on Paje Beach on the Zanzibar’s east coast lies Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa . Unwind in the warm Indian Ocean waters and walk along pristine beaches that run along the length of the resort.

Nature abounds, both above and below the waves, in lush forests and vibrant coral reefs. Choose to snorkel, kite surf or swim in the waves. The hotel’s luxury facilities include spa treatments, a swimming pool and a children’s playground.

5. Tswalu Kalahari, South Africa

Tucked away in the northern reaches of South Africa, Tswalu Kalahari offers a safari experience unmatched anywhere in the world. With clear blue skies, golden and crimson sunsets, green grass and intense ruby dunes, a trip to Tswalu in December is what dreams are made of. All bookings for December will receive their own private guide and safari vehicle. If you are dreaming of an exclusive & intimate safari experience, nothing comes close to Tswalu. The diversity of wildlife on offer at this private reserve is something you won’t find at other parks. Here you can find the black-maned Kalahari lions, meerkats, Cape foxes and pangolin as well as other traditional safari animals.

Our favourite property: Tswalu Motse Lodge

Tswalu Motse Lodge is an oasis surrounded by vast open spaces and red desert soil. Guests spend days searching for the wildlife that inhabits the reserve, including lesser-known species such as the snow wolf, pangolin and aardvark, which are regular visitors.

Tswalu Motse accommodates guests in nine ‘Legaes’, which is a Tswana word meaning “small house”. Built from stone, red sand clay and thatch, each « Legae » boasts an en-suite bathroom, an open fire, a private terrace with stunning views of the Kalahari.

Enjoy African travel  in December with Rhino Africa

There is no better time to travel in Africa than now. And enjoying African travel in December is the perfect way to explore some of the world’s most remote and beautiful places. Our travel experts are on hand to make your safari dreams a reality, contact them today to start planning.

If you liked this blog, you might also like:

• Our Top Ten Places To Stay In Kenya
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About the author 

Born and raised in Johannesburg, Luke ventured to a small town in the Eastern Cape, Grahamstown, where he studied at Rhodes University. Clearly not having studied enough, he then completed a finance degree just for fun - who even does this? Luke is passionate about travelling and was lucky enough to work in the USA for almost 2 years. However, his love for Africa was too strong and he returned home and moved to the spectacular city of Cape Town to pursue a career in the travel industry. Having once been a competitive swimmer, Luke can often be found doing laps in the pool. He is, however, a general fitness junkie and can be found doing anything from cycling, running, mountain biking, triathlon, tennis, squash or anything that gets the heart rate up.

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Experience the Best African Safari in December – A Must Visit!

December is the perfect time to embark on the best African safari and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the continent’s wildlife and landscapes. Both East Africa and Southern Africa offer fantastic safari experiences during this time, making it a must-visit month for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Key Takeaways:

• East Africa experiences the short rainy season in December , providing clear air and stunning views of Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park.
• In Tanzania, herds of wildebeest and zebra gather in the south of the Serengeti in preparation for calving.
• Southern Africa’s rainy season begins in December , transforming the landscape with lush greenery and new growth.
• Botswana’s Okavango Delta becomes a breathtaking oasis, while Etosha National Park in Namibia offers opportunities to see newborn animals.
• Zambia’s lodges and camps are mostly closed due to impassable roads caused by the sticky black cotton soil.

Overall, December provides incredible safari experiences in Africa, showcasing wildlife, vibrant landscapes, and unique weather conditions. It is a popular time to visit, so it’s important to plan ahead and secure accommodations to ensure the best experience possible.

The Best Time for Safari in December

December presents an excellent opportunity to go on a safari adventure, as it offers ideal weather conditions and extraordinary wildlife encounters. In both East Africa and Southern Africa , this month offers unique experiences that nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss.

East Africa Safari

In East Africa, December marks the short rainy season, which has its own charm. The rain clears the air, providing magnificent views of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park, Kenya. In Tanzania, herds of wildebeest and zebra gather in the south of the Serengeti in preparation for the calving season, guaranteeing thrilling wildlife sightings.

Southern Africa Safari

In Southern Africa , December signals the start of the rainy season, transforming the landscape and creating lush green surroundings. Botswana experiences summer rains and thunderstorms, turning the dusty brown plains into a stunning oasis in the Okavango Delta. Namibia comes to life with a sprinkle of rain, and Etosha National Park becomes a prime spot for witnessing newborn animals. However, do note that lodges and camps in Zambia may be mostly closed due to the impassable roads caused by the sticky black cotton soil. Zimbabwe experiences short afternoon showers and lush vegetation, making wildlife viewing a bit more challenging. South Africa offers two climate zones, with Cape Town being an excellent choice for December due to its hot and dry weather, while the eastern side of the country receives refreshing summer rain.

December is a popular time for African safaris, so planning in advance and securing accommodations is crucial for the best experience. Whether you choose to explore East Africa or venture into Southern Africa, you are sure to be rewarded with incredible wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable moments on your December safari adventure.

Top Safari Destinations in December

Whether you prefer the wild plains of East Africa or the lush landscapes of Southern Africa, there are remarkable safari destinations to explore in December. This is an ideal time to witness nature’s wonders and experience the thrill of wildlife encounters in some of the most captivating locations on the continent.

East Africa

In East Africa, Kenya’s private wildlife conservancies surrounding the Masai Mara offer incredible game viewing opportunities. The short rainy season clears the dust from the air, providing magnificent views of Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park. In Tanzania, the herds of wildebeest and zebra gather in the south of the Serengeti in preparation for calving, creating a spectacle like no other. It’s also a great time for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

Southern Africa

In Southern Africa, Botswana experiences summer rains and thunderstorms, transforming the landscape from dusty brown to lush green. The Okavango Delta becomes a stunning oasis, attracting an abundance of wildlife. Namibia comes to life with a little bit of rain, and Etosha National Park becomes a great place to see newborn animals. While Zambia’s lodges and camps mostly close due to impassable roads caused by the sticky black cotton soil, Zimbabwe experiences short afternoon showers and lush vegetation. South Africa, with its two climate zones, offers both hot and dry weather in Cape Town and summer rain on the eastern side of the country.

Overall, December offers incredible opportunities to witness exotic wildlife , explore diverse landscapes, and experience unique weather conditions in Africa. However, it’s important to plan ahead and secure accommodations in advance, as this is a popular time to visit. So, get ready for an unforgettable safari adventure in one of these top safari destinations in December !

Exploring East Africa’s Safari Gems

East Africa beckons with its extraordinary safari gems , and in December, you can witness stunning wildlife spectacles in Kenya and Tanzania. As the short rainy season clears the air and rejuvenates the landscapes, the region becomes a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

In Kenya, the private wildlife conservancies surrounding the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve offer an unforgettable safari experience. Here, you can embark on thrilling game drives to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing. Marvel at the dramatic river crossings as these animals navigate through crocodile-infested waters, making for a truly breathtaking spectacle.

Meanwhile, Tanzania is a haven for safari lovers in December. The wildlife-rich Serengeti National Park comes to life as herds of wildebeest and zebra gather in the southern plains, preparing for the calving season. Delight in the heartwarming sight of newborn animals taking their first steps in the wild, accompanied by the watchful eyes of predators eager for an easy meal. For a truly immersive experience, consider adding a visit to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, where an abundance of wildlife roams within a breathtaking volcanic caldera.

Both Kenya and Tanzania offer a unique blend of wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters, making them the perfect destinations to embark on an unforgettable African safari adventure in December.

Unveiling Southern Africa’s Safari Wonders

The breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife of Southern Africa come alive in December, offering a unique safari experience that will leave you in awe. This region encompasses countries such as Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, each with its own distinct charm and natural wonders to explore.

Botswana: The Oasis of the Okavango Delta

In December, Botswana experiences summer rains and thunderstorms, transforming the typically dusty brown landscape into a lush green oasis. The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination during this time. The floods from Angola reach their peak, creating an intricate network of channels and lagoons, making it a paradise for wildlife. Spot elephants cooling off in the water, lions prowling through the tall grass, and hippos basking in the sun. Explore the delta by boat or traditional mokoro canoe, immersing yourself in the tranquility of this captivating environment.

Namibia: A Desert Wonderland

December brings a touch of rain to the desert plains of Namibia, transforming the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors. In Etosha National Park, witness the sight of newborn animals taking their first steps amidst the rugged terrain. Spot majestic lions, graceful giraffes, and the rare black rhino. Delve into the stark beauty of the Namib Desert, home to towering sand dunes and the iconic Sossusvlei. Marvel at the contrast between the fiery orange sands and the deep blue skies, creating an otherworldly spectacle that will leave you breathless.

Zimbabwe and South Africa: Nature’s Symphony

In Zimbabwe, December brings short afternoon showers and lush vegetation, creating a serene backdrop for wildlife viewing. Explore the magnificent Hwange National Park, home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations, as well as a diverse array of predators and birdlife. In South Africa, December showcases the country’s diverse climate zones. Cape Town offers hot and dry weather, perfect for beach outings and exploring iconic landmarks like Table Mountain. On the eastern side of the country, summer rains bring green rejuvenation, making it an ideal time for game drives in Kruger National Park.

Embark on a journey through Southern Africa’s safari wonders in December and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature. Witness the lush landscapes, encounter a diverse range of wildlife, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Plan your adventure ahead and secure your accommodations to make the most of this sensational safari experience.

December Safari Travel Tips

Planning a safari in December? Equip yourself with these valuable travel tips to make the most of your adventure. December is a popular time to visit Africa for its incredible wildlife sightings and unique weather conditions. Whether you’re heading to East Africa or Southern Africa, these tips will help you plan a memorable safari experience.

1. Book in Advance

December is a peak travel season for safaris, so it’s essential to book your accommodations well in advance. The popular safari lodges and camps tend to fill up quickly, so securing your spot early ensures that you have the best options available. Being proactive will also help you secure better rates and avoid disappointment.

2. Pack Appropriately

When packing for a December safari, prepare for both warm and cool weather. The days can be hot, especially in Southern Africa, so lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal. However, it can get chilly in the early mornings and evenings, so bring layers, including a warm jacket or fleece. Don’t forget to pack sunblock, a wide-brimmed hat, insect repellent, sturdy walking shoes, and a good pair of binoculars for wildlife viewing.

3. Be Flexible

While planning your safari itinerary, be flexible with your travel dates and destinations . December is the start of the rainy season in some parts of Africa, which can affect road conditions and animal movements. Having some flexibility allows you to adapt to changing weather patterns and maximize your chances of wildlife sightings. Consult with a reputable tour operator or travel agent who can provide guidance on the best locations to visit based on your preferences and the current conditions.

By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable safari experience in December. Remember to plan ahead, pack appropriately, and stay flexible to make the most of your adventure. Whether you choose to explore the incredible wildlife of East Africa or the lush landscapes of Southern Africa, December is undoubtedly a must-visit time for an unforgettable African safari .

December Safari Packages – Affordable to Luxury

From affordable options to luxurious getaways, discover the diverse range of safari packages available in December, tailoring to every adventurer’s needs. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or seeking a once-in-a-lifetime luxury experience, there is an African safari package that will exceed your expectations.

Affordable Safari Packages

If you’re looking for an affordable African safari in December , there are plenty of options to choose from. Many tour operators offer budget-friendly packages that allow you to experience the magic of African wildlife without breaking the bank. These packages typically include accommodation, transportation, meals, and guided game drives, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free adventure.

Some affordable safari destinations to consider include Kenya’s Maasai Mara, where you can witness the iconic wildebeest migration, and South Africa’s Kruger National Park, home to an abundance of diverse wildlife. These destinations offer a range of accommodation options, from cozy lodges to comfortable tented camps, catering to different budget preferences.

Luxury Safari Packages

For those seeking a more indulgent experience, luxury African safari packages in December offer unparalleled comfort and exclusive access to some of the continent’s most coveted destinations. Imagine waking up to the sight of elephants grazing outside your private villa or enjoying a sundowner overlooking the vast African plains.

Botswana’s Okavango Delta and South Africa’s Sabi Sands Game Reserve are renowned for their luxurious safari lodges and camps, offering world-class amenities and personalized service. These destinations provide opportunities to spot the Big Five and other magnificent wildlife species in style.

Whichever safari package you choose, December promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Africa. Whether you opt for an affordable getaway or a luxury retreat, the sights, sounds, and experiences of an African safari will leave you with cherished memories that last a lifetime.

Witnessing Exotic Wildlife on an African Safari in December

Brace yourself for unforgettable encounters with exotic wildlife as you embark on an African safari in December, a time when nature reveals its most magnificent creatures. From the open plains of East Africa to the lush landscapes of Southern Africa, this is the ideal period to witness the wonders of the animal kingdom up close.

In East Africa, Kenya’s private wildlife conservancies surrounding the Masai Mara offer exceptional game viewing opportunities. Picture yourself in awe as you witness the annual wildebeest migration, an epic spectacle of millions of animals on the move. In Tanzania, the herds of wildebeest and zebra gather in the south of the Serengeti, anticipating the birth of their young ones. Get ready to capture stunning photographs of adorable newborn animals taking their first steps in the wild.

In Southern Africa, Botswana experiences the start of the rainy season in December, transforming the arid landscape into a lush green oasis. The Okavango Delta becomes a paradise for wildlife, with abundant water attracting a myriad of animals. Venture into Namibia’s Etosha National Park, where a little bit of rain brings the desert to life, creating a perfect backdrop for spotting newborn animals. While Zimbabwe may experience short afternoon showers, the resulting lush vegetation provides a unique setting for wildlife encounters.

As you head to South Africa, prepare to explore diverse climates. Cape Town enjoys hot and dry weather, making it an ideal destination for December. On the eastern side of the country, summer rains bring new life to the game reserves. Whether you’re exploring the magnificent Kruger National Park or embarking on a thrilling safari in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa promises unforgettable sightings of the Big Five and other fascinating species.

African Safari in December: A Journey into Wildlife’s Realm

December provides a magical opportunity to witness wildlife in its natural habitat. From the vast herds of wildebeest in East Africa to the majestic elephants in Botswana, each safari destination offers unique sightings and unforgettable experiences. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to immerse yourself in an African safari adventure that will leave you captivated and in awe of the incredible creatures that call this continent home.

In conclusion , December offers an unparalleled adventure for wildlife enthusiasts, where you can witness the wonders of Africa’s diverse landscapes and encounter extraordinary animals on the best African safari. Whether you choose to explore the captivating destinations of East Africa or the stunning wonders of Southern Africa, this time of year promises unforgettable experiences.

In East Africa, the short rainy season in December clears the air, providing breathtaking views of the towering Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park. Meanwhile, Tanzania becomes a haven for wildlife as herds of wildebeest and zebra gather in the south of the Serengeti in preparation for calving.

In Southern Africa, December marks the beginning of the rainy season, transforming the arid landscapes into lush green havens. Botswana’s Okavango Delta becomes a stunning oasis, while Namibia’s Etosha National Park offers sightings of newborn animals against a backdrop of refreshed scenery.

Although Zambia’s lodges may be mostly closed due to impassable roads caused by the sticky black cotton soil, there are still plenty of opportunities for incredible wildlife encounters in this region. Zimbabwe experiences short afternoon showers and vibrant vegetation, making wildlife viewing a thrilling challenge. South Africa, with its diverse climate zones, offers different experiences depending on the region. Cape Town basks in hot and dry weather, making it an ideal destination, while the eastern side of the country receives summer rain, adding a refreshing touch to your safari.

Planning ahead and securing accommodations is essential during this popular time to visit, ensuring you have the best experience possible. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable African safari in December!

What is the best time to go on a safari in December?

December is a fantastic time for an African safari, as both East Africa and Southern Africa offer incredible experiences during this month.

What are the top safari destinations to visit in December?

In East Africa, Kenya’s private wildlife conservancies and Tanzania’s Serengeti are highly recommended. In Southern Africa, Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Namibia’s Etosha National Park, and South Africa’s Cape Town are popular choices.

What can I expect to see on an African safari in December?

December presents unique opportunities to witness newborn animals, lush landscapes, and exotic wildlife such as wildebeest, zebra, gorillas, and more.

Are there any travel tips for a safari in December?

Planning ahead and securing accommodations is crucial due to the popularity of December safaris. It’s also important to pack appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions and to check road accessibility in certain areas.

What types of safari packages are available in December?

From affordable to luxury options, there are a wide range of safari packages to suit different budgets and preferences in December.

Is December a good time for safari photography?

Yes, December offers excellent opportunities for photography, as the clear air and lush landscapes make for stunning shots of wildlife and the African scenery.

Is it necessary to book a safari in advance for December?

Yes, it is highly recommended to book your December safari in advance to secure the best accommodations and ensure availability during this popular travel period.

Source Links

• https://www.africansafaris.co.nz/blog/where-to-go-on-an-african-safari-in-december/
• https://safarideal.com/where-to-go-on-safari-in-december/
• https://www.tourradar.com/sg/safari-december

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5 Beautiful African Countries to Visit in December

Which is the best African country to visit? Well, it’s difficult to choose since picking the best travel destination on the continent can be overwhelming. 

We can all agree that there is something for everyone in every African destination. From impressive UNESCO heritage sites and ancient ruins to the Blue Nile and Victoria Falls, Africa has all you need to explore. 

Africa is the best place for those looking for the promise of adventure and the best mother nature has to offer.

But since it is a continent of 54 countries, you must be wondering which is the best African country to visit. 

Table of Contents

Namibia. Photo/ Rough Guides.

Namibia is an extraordinary travel destination in Africa. It has one of the lowest population densities in the world, making it a great place to escape crowds. 

Namibia is not among the most visited African countries, but it is more diverse than you ever imagined. From main landmarks to very beautiful places , Namibia has plenty of less-known fascinating attractions. 

Some of the best travel destinations in Namibia include The Namib Desert, Etosha Park, Cape Cross Seal Reserve and Fish River Canyon. 

The Namib Desert is the best place to visit in Namibia if you want to escape the rush of modernity. Here, you’ll soak up dark night skies free of pollution. 

2. South Africa 

Some consider South Africa the best African country to visit. But why would they be wrong if the country has everything you would expect to see in a typical African country? 

South Africa has everything from varied topography and great natural beauty to cultural diversity and stunning wildlife. This beautiful country is undoubtedly the most extraordinary destination in Africa.

South Africa. Photo/ Nations Online Project.

Some of the places in South Africa to put on your bucket list include Cape Town, the Apartheid Museum, Kruger National Park and the Drakensberg. 

Egypt’s significance in the history of mankind is unmatched. Many prehistoric kingdoms once occupied the area, which is the meeting point of Africa, the Middle East and the Mediterranean. 

So when history is what brings you to Africa, Egypt is undoubtedly the best African country to visit. The Great Pyramid of Giza and the Valley of Kings are examples of places you can explore in Egypt to learn about history. 

Other places to visit in the North African country include Saqqara ,  the Egyptian museum, South Sinai and Cairo. 

4. Morocco 

Morocco is a country in north Africa that has a different vibe than other African countries.

The country, which is nestled between the Sahara Desert in the east and the Atlantic Ocean in the west, is blended in Arabic and Mediterranean cultures. 

Morocco has the best activities for a traveller seeking tranquillity or thrills. Some of the things to do in Morocco include exploring Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque, shopping Marrakesh’s souks and watching goats ascend the Argan trees.

Morocco. Photo/ National Geographic.

You can also visit vibrant and chaotic cities such as Marrakesh, Casablanca and Fez to create a memorable experience. 

Kenya is usually considered the best African country to visit because it’s a phenomenal safari destination. The country, situated in East Africa, has the best attractions for tourists interested in wildlife viewing.

Maasai Mara is the most popular park in Kenya, with a herd of zebras, elephants, lions and cheetahs, just to mention a few.

Wildebeest Migration in Maasai Mara National Park. Photo/ www.maasaimara.com.

But it is only one of the 60 national parks in Kenya. Others include Tsavo East, Mount Kenya, Meru, Lake Nakuru, Aberdare and Amboseli. 

Apart from the wildlife, Kenya also boasts stunning beaches and rich cultural diversity to ignite humanity. 

What is the Safest Country in Africa to Visit?

According to the current GPI ranking, Mauritius is the safest country in Africa and the 28th safest country in the world. And that means you can plan your trip to Mauritius at any time. 

Which African Country is the Most Beautiful? 

Egypt is the centre of African arts, Museums, and ancient history . Also known as ‘the cradle of civilization, Egypt is prized for being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Pyramids of Giza. 

Egypt is arguably the most beautiful country you should visit in Africa. 

Which is the No 1 Country in Africa? 

Algeria is the largest country in Africa by area. It is ranked as the tenth largest country in the world. 

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About the author.

Abraham Odhiambo

Abraham Odhiambo is a writer with interests in nature, travel, African safari and sports. I'm pursuing a bachelor's degree in Media and Communication at Egerton University.

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Where to Go on an African Safari in December

December is a good month to go on safari in Botswana. The pans in the desert areas attract a lot of wildlife in the Wet season. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, this Green season is a lovely time for a safari in Tanzania’s Northern circuit and Kenya. Low-season rates might be an added bonus. South Africa is a good choice for a December holiday too.

Best Time per Country

Flag of zimbabwe zimbabwe in december.

• Spectacular green landscapes
• Most rain comes in afternoon thunderstorms, there are plenty of sunny days
• Great birding with migrant species present
• Animals disperse, wildlife viewing is better in the Dry season
• It’s very hot in low-lying areas

Flag of Zambia Zambia in December

• Some camps in South Luangwa NP stay open for the Wet season and offer low rates
• Stunning lush landscapes and excellent birding
• Many roads become impassable
• Wildlife viewing is more difficult in the Wet season
• Many camps are closed for the off season

Flag of South Africa South Africa in December

• It is summer with lovely warm weather
• Landscapes are lush and beautiful
• It never rains a lot, afternoon thunderstorms are the norm
• Wildlife viewing is generally better in the Dry season

Flag of Uganda Uganda in December

• It’s relatively dry, which makes gorilla trekking easier
• There are lots of sunny days
• There are many newborn animals in the savannah parks
• Forest paths are less slippery than in the Wet season months
• Gorilla permits need to be booked long in advance

Flag of Tanzania Tanzania in December

• Wildlife viewing is always good in the Northern circuit parks
• Beautiful scenery
• Rain doesn’t often interfere with activities
• Excellent birding with migrants present
• Tarangire, Nyerere (Selous), Ruaha and Katavi National Parks are better visited in the Dry season

Flag of Rwanda Rwanda in December

• Gorilla trekking is good throughout the year
• There are many newborn animals in Akagera NP
• Wildlife viewing in Akagera National Park is better in the Dry season
• Chimp trekking is easier in the Dry season
• Hiking is challenging in the Wet season

Flag of Namibia Namibia in December

• Although it is the Wet season, it doesn’t rain much
• It is low season and parks are not busy
• There are many newborn animals
• It can get very hot
• Animals are dispersed in Etosha National Park

Flag of Kenya Kenya in December

• Although best in the Dry season, wildlife viewing is good
• It is mostly sunny and rain rarely interferes with activities
• Fresh green scenery
• Migratory birds are present
• Wildlife viewing is best in the Dry season

Flag of Botswana Botswana in December

• The scenery is lovely and green
• Rain seldom interferes with activities
• Although wildlife viewing is best in the Dry season, it is good all year round
• It is low season, meaning few visitors and lower rates
• Wildlife viewing is better in the Dry season

Visiting month

Best safari parks to visit in december.

See below for an overview of the best parks to visit in Africa by country. Please note that the listings focus on the most popular parks only and are not comprehensive.

Flag of Botswana Botswana

Best parks & reserves in december.

Central Kalahari GR Excellent

Nxai Pan NP Excellent

Chobe NP Good

Okavango Delta Good

Flag of Kenya Kenya

Lake Nakuru NP Excellent

Amboseli NP Good

Samburu NR Good

Tsavo East NP Good

Flag of Namibia Namibia

Skeleton Coast NP Excellent

Namib-Naukluft NP Good

Flag of Rwanda Rwanda

Akagera NP Good

Flag of South Africa South Africa

No Best Parks & Reserves in December

South Africa does not have parks that are best visited in December. When to visit South Africa?

Flag of Tanzania Tanzania

Ngorongoro Crater Excellent

Lake Manyara NP Good

Serengeti NP Good

Flag of Uganda Uganda

Murchison Falls NP Excellent

Bwindi NP Good

Kibale NP Good

Flag of Zambia Zambia

Zambia does not have parks that are best visited in December. When to visit Zambia?

Flag of Zimbabwe Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe does not have parks that are best visited in December. When to visit Zimbabwe?

All Parks & Reserves

Safari highlights in december.

Unpredictability is what makes a safari exciting. You never know what you’ll see and every day is different. However, life in the bush is seasonal and some careful planning is recommended. Read on for a few tips on where to go on safari in December.

Springbok Gather Around the Pans in Central Kalahari, Botswana

By December the pans in the Deception Valley area of Central Kalahari GR have filled up sufficiently to attract big herds of impala, wildebeest, buffalo and zebra. Most impressive are the huge herds of springbok, which have come here to drop their young. These unsteady little newborns are a favorite prey for cheetahs prowling around on the fringes. Lions enjoy the easy pickings too, and seeing a fully grown male with its black mane, a typical feature of the Kalahari lions, is a special treat.

Zebra Migration at Nxai Pan, Botswana

The summer rains in December trigger the Chobe–Nxai zebra migration, the longest mammal movement in Africa. Every year, more than 30,000 plains zebra undertake the 1,000km/620mi return journey through remote desert areas. While the pan transforms from a barren wasteland to a green oasis, big herds of zebra, accompanied by smaller groups of wildebeest, spread out over the grassy plains. They stay until March before they return to the Chobe floodplains with its permanent water.

Flamingos Hatch at Lake Natron, Tanzania

Lake Natron in northern Tanzania is the most important breeding site for lesser flamingos in the world. Around September to October, the birds lay their eggs in dome-like mud constructions sticking out above the water surface. Most of the eggs hatch around December. Watching big numbers of pink flamingos strutting up and down the shallow waters, as if part of an elaborately choreographed dance, is a mesmerizing experience. Unsurprisingly it has been called the greatest ornithological spectacle on earth.

Best Time for a South African Safari Holiday

December is a fantastic time for a holiday in South Africa. It’s mid-summer, a perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities in Cape Town and the Garden Route. This region experiences a very mild climate, but December is sufficiently warm for swimming, spending time on the beaches, alfresco dining, hiking, sightseeing and just enjoying that feeling of summer holidays. Combine this with a safari in one of the excellent Big Five private reserves, such as Shamwari, Sabi Sand or Madikwe Game Reserves, and you have the perfect safari-holiday combo.

15 Best Countrıes to Vısıt in Afrıca

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In this tour guide, we will be opening you up to some of the best countries to visit in Africa. Those looking for the promise of an adventure and the best mother nature has to offer can expect the trip of a lifetime in Africa. From the Blue Nile and Victoria Falls to the ancient ruins and impressive UNESCO heritage, these African countries will leave you culturally-inspired on your first trip. But before you talk yourself out of visiting this magnificent continent, keep reading to discover the 15 best countries to travel in Africa that should be on your bucket list in 2020.

There is something for everyone in every African destination. While some getaways may be suited for those looking for the ultimate rest and relaxation and life as a local, other African destinations guarantee a non-stop adrenaline rush for the adventure seekers.

Whatever your reason might be, traveling to Africa guarantees an experience like no other. Are you still unsure of the best places to visit in Africa? Here are the top 15 best African vacations we recommend for your next trip.

Top 3 Best African Countries to Visit

South africa.

South Africa is perhaps the most extraordinary African destination because some parts of it look like just another place in the US or Europe. Yet, the country has everything you would expect from a typical African country and more.

Nature is unparalleled thanks to iconic natural wonders like Table Mountain, while the wildlife in Kruger National Park is considered one of the richest in the continent. Its major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg are the most cosmopolitan in Africa, while the towns can come across as unbelievably rural. Overall, the country is a bucket-list destination for so many reasons.

As the meeting point of Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East, Egypt’s significance in the history of mankind is undeniable. Many prehistoric kingdoms once occupied the area, so it is possible to find their traces all around the country. The UNESCO world heritage site of the iconic pyramids is just one example.

Besides the unique historic background, Egypt is one of the top diving destinations in Africa due to its coastline along the Red Sea. You do not have to worry about applying for your visa in advance since Egypt has a visa on arrival for visitors.

While many African destinations are becoming brimming with tourists, Ethiopia remains unspoiled even today. Its landscape has elements of both tranquility and adventure.

Erta Ale is an active volcano, which is one of the few left in the world. Witnessing the boiling lava spurt out of its crater is an experience you can never forget. Besides Erta Ale, the country offers a journey in history through monolithic churches, ancient obelisks, and Lake Tana that sources the Blue Nile.

Once you visit Ethiopia, you will see why it is one of the best African countries for your vacation.

The Best Country in Africa: Claimed 4-10 Spot

Tanzania always takes the top spot in many tourism-related lists. Its beach destinations like Zanzibar and Pemba are among the best beach and diving spots in the world. Serengeti National Park is often considered the best safari destination in Africa since it witnesses a mass wildebeest migration from surrounding parks.

While Tanzania’s landscape is unparalleled, some of the rewarding views can only be reached after long climbs. For instance, Mount Kilimanjaro has the highest peak in Africa at nearly 6000 meters, so climbing its summit can take months of preparation and planning, but it will be well worth it.

Madagascar is one of the most peaceful countries in Africa. Surrounded by the coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, it is a prime diving destination full of world-class diving facilities and luxurious resorts. Once you leave the touristy areas, you will come across quaint fishing towns, baobab trees lined up for kilometers, and national parks abundant in lemurs.

US and UK passport holders need a visa to visit Madagascar. Get your visa hassle-free from iVisa .

Although Malawi is a landlocked country, it is one of the most popular diving and beach destinations in Africa. The country owes it to the grand Lake Malawi that comprises diverse fresh-water marine life. Various beach towns around the lake offer activities like watersports, diving, fishing, and hiking.

The lake is also a great water source for wildlife, particularly leopards and antelopes. In addition, the country is known to have the friendliest people in the world, which will make your trip even more enjoyable.

Mountain gorillas have become endangered over the past few decades; luckily, Uganda’s nature still provides them with the ideal habitat of the tropical forest. Owing to the source of the River Nile Uganda has a large amount of water, which is vital for the gorillas along with various other mammals and birds. 

The country also offers a broad range of activities like traditional art festivals, volcano hikes, kayaking, and rafting.

Botswana has a long-established reputation for having the most stable economy in Africa, which consequently makes it one of the safest in the continent. It is also a prime safari destination with a large area of land dedicated to wildlife.

The semi-arid Kalahari region and Makgadikgadi Pans are occupied by various antelopes and predators that have long adapted to dry climate. In contrast, the north of the country has a more subtropical climate with an abundance of water sources in Chobe National Park and Okavango Delta. Overall, the country has a huge variety of wildlife due to the diverse climate and vegetation and is one of the best countries to visit in Africa.

Victoria Falls has been proclaimed as one of the 7 natural wonders of the world for having the largest mass of free-falling water. Because of the political dispute in Zimbabwe, tourists have shifted their focus towards Zambia that also borders the falls. 

The nearby town of Livingstone provides several affordable accommodation options for travelers. Aside from Victoria Falls, Zambia attracts tourists to its safari parks and nature reserves that are known for having some of the densest wildlife populations in Southern Africa.

Blending in Mediterranean and Arabic cultures, this northern African country has a different vibe than the rest of Africa. Nestled between the Sahara Desert in the east and the Atlantic Ocean in the west, the country offers authentic attractions combining the desert, the ocean, and the cities. 

Morocco has the best cities in Africa to visit; Marrakesh, Fez and Casablanca are vibrant and chaotic, while small cities like Chefchaouen have eccentric architecture and crafts scene. Making her one of the best countries to visit in Africa.

#11-15 Best Countries to Visit in Africa

Ghana is a country that was born from its ashes. It was under British rule for a long time as the Gold Coast, followed by years of military rule. Today, the gold resources made Ghana the economic power of West Africa. The colonial architecture is still prominent with iconic castles and forts. 

The country also has extensive ruins of the ancient Ashanti Kingdom, surrounded by rainforests, lakes, mountains, and sandy beaches. A tourist visa is required for most visitors and is valid for up to 90 days. iVisa can save you time and help you expedite your visa application process.

Along with Tanzania’s Serengeti, Masai Mara National Park in Kenya witnesses a mass animals congregating and migration of wildebeest , which makes it a phenomenal safari destination in East Africa. Yet, Masai Mara is only one of the 60 national parks in the country. 

Besides these parks, the wonders of Kenya range from pristine beaches on the Swahili Coast to historic forts and mosques in cities like Mombasa. Whether you are into history or nature, Kenya has it all in one package and is usually considered the best country in Africa.

With a small but developing tourism industry, Senegal is one of the best-kept secrets of Africa. It is also home to a thought-provoking slave-trade history, which everyone should find out to learn from past mistakes. Goree Island was once renowned as a major slave-trade fort, although it is now an area full of museums and colonial remains. 

Besides the tragic history, Senegal is the heart of wildlife in West Africa with national parks that support ecotourism. These parks are home to rare mangrove and baobab trees, as well as endangered species like the West African lions.

The sheer size of Namibia has much to be desired from the untamed wilderness and rich wildlife of this beautiful country. Unique attractions include large dunes, iconic salt pans like Sossusvlei and Etosha, desert-adapted wildlife, and the Fish River Canyon, which is the largest in Africa. 

Although the small cities like Windhoek and Swakopmund might seem deprived of activities at first look, they have a surprisingly rich German colonial architecture. Namibia is one of the African countries to visit without a visa if you are a US or UK citizen.

Cape Verde is a small archipelago in Northwest Africa. Thanks to Portuguese influence, vibrant beach towns, and volcanic landscapes, Cape Verde is considered the Brazil of Africa. The prominent ecotourism scene provides visitors with lots of hiking and water sports. 

The capital Sao Vicente hosts a carnival in February, which is nothing short of Brazil’s Rio Carnival and it is the best time of year to travel to Africa since it is the cooler part of the year. Psst! Cape Verde is a foodie’s paradise! 

Conclusion: The Best African Countries for Vacation

The best countries to visit in Africa are not limited to these 15; the continent is full of unexplored regions. In this article, we tried to highlight countries from every geographical region of Africa, offering a diverse selection of unique activities in Africa. 

You just might be consumed by wanderlust after your first adventure travel to our motherland. No matter which attraction appeals to you the most, visiting Africa is truly an eye-opening experience. Don’t be put off by your fears (or what you see on tv) and start planning today!

The FAQ’s for the Best Countries to Travel in Africa

According to the 2019 Peace Index, the three most peaceful countries in Africa are Mauritius, Botswana, and Malawi. Using this information as a guide, these countries are safe to visit. For a comprehensive list of the safest countries in Africa read this guide the 15 safest African countries to visit.

The best African countries to visit depends on what you are expecting from your trip. For those interested in wildlife, the ideal destinations are Botswana, Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa. However, Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius in southeast Africa are renowned for marine life. West Africa is known for its distinct colonial architecture.

Many countries in Africa are ideal to visit all-year-round; however, most of them experience distinct dry and mild winter months, followed by hot and rainy summers. June to September is often the best time to visit for wildlife viewing because animals tend to congregate around water sources, which makes them easier to spot.

Countries in Central and East Africa still struggle with civil wars and political disputes. Somali, South Sudan, Central African Republic, and Congo might not be safe to visit especially during political turmoil, ongoing violence and threats of terrorism. 

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Nice article and well researched facts. I am a Cameroonian by birth, but current US citizen for 22 years. I have visited several countries in North America, South America, Europe, African, Middle East, and Asia. So lets just say I’m well traveled. I have lots of Nigerian friends in Cameroon, Nigeria as well as here in the US. Personally I have been to Nigeria 3 times in the past eight years, staying 2 to 3 weeks each time I visited. Being to Abuja, Lagos, port harcourt, yenagoa, oweri and calabar. My best friend from high school (she was born in Cameroon, her parents still trading in Cameroon till date) lives in Oweri with her husband and two kids. Facts- Nigeria has billionaires, rich culture, music, and hard working people. BUT, when we’re talking about tourism, Nigeria has no place on the Map. This blog is specific for travel advice for those wishing to vacation in Africa. Anyone who’s attempted traveling understands the check list you go thro when planning international trips- visa requirement, local laws, safety, site seeing, healthcare, local currency are top priority. NO ONE hops in a flight from the US to Africa to enjoy fancy 5 star hotels in Lagos or Abuja ?. People visit Africa for the game, safari, to hang out with the locals, enjoy history, nature and culture. Now those Nigerians rambling about why Nigeria is not on the list, please tell me which one of you can go home and hang out with the locals in you own town or village? Can you eat food prepared by your own cousin? If Nigeria was the best country in Africa like some of you claim why the brain drain, all your talented professionals including yourself are permanently migrating to other countries due to insecurity, witch craft, corruption, greed, high crime rate in Nigeria. chiii!!!, wunna really try ohh??? neh nehnehneh not on the list Wattin nija get to offer on tourism??? No electricity (generator noise and pollution from fuel will give you migraines) No running water ( if you dare to go carry plenty of flagyl and bactrim) wash your hands with bottle water Food is very expensive and poorly preserved Everyone tries to scam you (including the authorities) The people are not welcoming (if you don’t speak their language, they’ll not help you) I can go on and on…….. You Nigerians don’t go to sleep with both eyes closed when you go home to visit your family- FACT * I’ll not recommend my home country Cameroon either. We have electricity, running water, good food, but poor conditions of touristic attractions, poor health care.

Hi Selgie, thanks for sharing your thoughts about Nigeria. It’s always a breath of fresh air to have someone as traveled as you share your unbiased take on a country. Please reach out to us if you’d like to be a contributor to this website.

xo ~ Louisa

Iam not here to say more or less, if you are a Nigerian and you have never lift Nigerian before. Please ? is better you don’t say less of Nigeria. Am a Nigerian and I have travelled to alot of countries. I have been treated like a no body. You don’t get freedom that you get from Nigeria. Even the outsiders who lives in Nigerian have never been treated they way the treat we Nigerian in their own country. Forget what is going on now in Nigeria. Nigeria is a country where you get to explore your life itself. Which doesn’t happen I other countries. You think I’d all about killings and no light??. Is better I stay with high economy and no light Dan being treated like a problem to others. So if you are in Nigeri and have never lift there before don’t belittle your country because you see beautiful nature. Forget about the nature go and try leaving over den you will know. We Nigerian like running away from Nigeria thinking the other countries are better, the face worst than what Nigerian is facing. You won’t know because is not everything the post online. But Nigerian likes to show everything to the world and that is why we make it seem we face more. Explore other countries and see for yourself . Forget about going to another African country. Try going to other countries and see how they will make your life’s a leaving hall just because you are black. Nigeria is a home for all. Let me see who will tell me their country is better than Nigeria. Freedom is number 1. If Nigeria is so bad as you people think or see online, that means no single soul should have been left in it until now. When it comes to food ? we are game, when it comes to life we are there . When it comes to explore we are in. And you people did not add it to the list. Una get mind ooo.

Can’t take this list seriously without Zimbabwe’s inclusion. One of the most beautiful countries in Africa containing one of the world’s natural wonders Victoria Galls. How it doesn’t make this list is beyond me.

Hi Alice, please read our previous comments above about why certain countries did not make the list. Most people are VERY passionate about where they come from. If you can share more detailed information about why Zim should be on the list, it’d go a long way in our next review/update.

What’s interesting in your article is that you cite political tensions in the country from almost two decades ago. The country has moved on and I think your article must reflect sentiments on the ground. You asked for detailed information, here you go:

Zimbabwe, with attractions in almost every region, has a very developed tourism industry and is the 5th most visited country in Africa (Statista, 2019, link below). Hwange National Park, in the west of the country, has one the highest concentrations of elephants, African painted dogs and lions in the world. The Eastern Highlands, with three mountain groups (Nyanga, Bvumba and Chimanimani) is an ecoregion home to distinct grasslands, woodlands and forests and has the second highest waterfall in Africa. Lake Kariba, to the north, the world’s largest man-made lake has a large concentration of gamefish, particularly tigerfish, fish eagles patrolling its shorelines and big game on the southern Matusadona National Park. Gonarezhou National Park, to the south, has large tracts of pristine wilderness and lives up to its name which means “Place of the Elephants” with plenty more game. The most well known and Instagrammable feature of the park is the Chilijo Cliffs.

In-between and across the country, Zimbabwe boasts five World Heritage Sites: (1) Victoria Falls (of course) which can be seen all year (both wet and dry seasons) from the country’s vantage points. The town’s airport capacity, which tripled in 2016 to handle 1.7m passengers annually, makes it more accessible. The Victoria Falls Marathon has one of the most scenic routes in Africa. (2) Mana Pools National Park, one of the world’s wildest and best preserved ecological areas, is also a designated Ramsar wetland of international importance. The park is home to a remarkable concentration of elephants, buffalo, leopards, cheetahs, lions, hippopotami, African painted dogs and Nile crocodiles. (3) Great Zimbabwe, a medieval city inhabited from the 9th century to the 15th century which gave the country its name. Across an area of 7.3 sq km, these ruins are the second largest in Africa after the pyramids in Egypt. (4) Matobo National Park has over 3,000 registered San rock art sites (one the highest in the world) with Bambata Cave being a major archeological site. People have interacted with these hills for over many millennia, fostering strong local religious beliefs and an almost uninterrupted association between humans and their environment over the past 100,000 years. That association continues to this day with white rhino walking safaris, popular in the park, are very much a spiritual experience. (5) Khami, a ruined city was once the capital of the Kingdom of Butua between the 15th and 17th centuries. The site has beautifully decorated 6m high walls which bear checkerboard designs across their entire length.

I could go on and include the National Art Gallery in Harare which has remarkable Shona sculpture collections. It may come as a surprise but Pablo Picasso was most certainly influenced by Zimbabwe’s Shona stone sculptures (the gallery’s first director was a close friend of his). However, I’ll stop here and encourage you to examine Picasso’s artwork to notice the striking similarities with Shona art. Thanks.

statista.com/statistics/261740/countries-in-africa-ranked-by-international-tourist-arrivals

Hi Matthew, thanks for taking the time to share concrete reasons on why Zimbabwe should be on the list of the best countries to visit in Africa. This will definitely go a long way in our review/update.

I love my country Nigeria but the problem we have is our leaders

Thanks for chiming in, Don!

Leaders are problem of every country

Fez is not a small city!! It’s the second most populated city in Morocco, after Casablanca.

Yep, you’re right!

So my sweet country Cameroon will not even near this list abi??????

You never know. Big changes could happen.???

Proudly South African here and thank you for your beautiful well researched article. I was browsing through for other best African countries to visit I have been to almost all the Southern African ones and this article was really helpful. Great work!

Hi Noxy! We are glad you found this article helpful 🙂

Inspire of Nigerias flaw, I want yall who thought it isn’t a safe place to give me Instances of any of your family members shouting save me on the phone from Nigeria to me, we’re here we live here, there’s the same insecurity here as at other countries, you want to tell me only popes and reverend fathers lives in Kenya? And nobody could ever get hurt there?, Nigeria greatness shouldn’t be suppressed just because most of yall watch too much local news, if you really wanna Diss a country? Go there first, Nigeria is heaven on earth, even God and Satan had their worst times in heaven, that’s exactly what’s going on here, your article shows alot of discrimination and BS!

“Heaven on earth?” I humbly disagree. If you took the time to read the article or the bio section of the writers, you’ll get a better perspective. And please watch your words! FYI: This is an open platform, and curse words will not be tolerated.

Hi, I found this article immensely beautiful and comprehensive. Thanks so much.

I want to urge my fellow Nigerians, that are ridiculing the author’s wise decision to exclude Nigeria from the list to be more honest with themselves.

Even we that live here want to get out. We hate the fear, the cost of living, the insecurity.

How can one be so blinded by sentiments to say Nigeria should be on the list?

I am a Nigerian, and I have lived here all my life. I can tell you categorically, Nigeria is NOT a safe place to visit.

The daily news are horrible. Not to talk about the insane rise in money rituals, kidnapping, bomblast…

Oh common, let’s call a spade a spade.

Nigeria is a GREAT country. No doubt. But our leaders have made it a hell hole for us.

The corruption, wickedness and greed has brought us to where we are today.

I’m currently serving (NYSC) in Kwara state, and I made the decision that I would not travel back home till I’m done, why?

The roads are horrible.

All my bones ached badly, and for a journey that should take 4 hours, it took us 8 good hours. It was that bad, travelling from Ilorin to Patigi.

Since I got here, I have not been able to keep up with my online business that much, because there is NO LIGHT.

How is that okay?

No light, no water.

I suffered terribly the time I got here. I am just getting used to the situation of things and all. But that doesn’t mean things are getting better. They’re getting worse.

The bloodshed is much. The internet fraud is huge. Nigeria currently isn’t the best place to visit in Africa. Except you have the resources to stick to the luxurious places, have a tight security etc, and how is that for fun. It could as well pass for a formal function.

You lose the pleasure and joy when you are so damn security conscious.

I know stories. I don’t just want to say more.

I believe we will be better soon. I believe Nigeria will rise to become one of the most sought for in the world. I do. But till then, keep awake, and try to stays safe.

PS: I’m having thoughts of leaving Nigeria to another African country. Which would you suggest? I’m looking at a place with lots of potential, good living conditions, and economy.

Hi Meshack, thanks for your feedback and personal insight on your life in Nigeria. I hope everything gets better soon.

Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, and Malawi. If you’re open to moving outside of Africa, Canada is a great place for skilled immigrants. CanadaWiz has some helpful information.

xo – Louisa

Where can Nigeria travel to and live with peace

There are so many African countries you can move to. I am a Nigerian and I can relate to the recent happenings in the country.

You can stay in Visa free countries like Ghana or Benin Republic. I would recommend Benin because I met some Nigerians there in Dantokpa market (igbos) and Fidjrosse too. However, Benin is francophone but some understand english especially when you live among the Nigerians.

Hi Magdalene, thanks for providing personal suggestions to Osayande! We appreciate when our readers help each other out.

Good talker. Hope you get a million bucks for defaming and ridiculing your own nation. Corper you say? Have you thought of a reason to make your LCDA very important and do the work? Have you made any reasonable innovation and invention in your undergraduate days? Have you submitted a paper for review in the national newspaper to show how you really care for your country? I’d rather you haven’t. When you do it, teach people to do it too. That’s how we all learn to make the nation a better place

Bros, you just said rubbish. Absolute nonsense! What are taking about? Who is defacing which country? This country has no image within and outside of it. Everything said in the post you commented on are spot on. Where is the enabling environment for anything in Nigeria. You sound like one of the privileged few who don’t even know what’s up with the majority. This country is beyond redemption, everything is wrong! Everything! And you here talking rubbish. Paper kor paper ni. A country that celebrates mediocrity?? You amaze me.

I am surprised that D.R.Congo is classified an unsafe country to visit. But I can remind people here that it is not true and that 80% of the country is peaceful and quiet. Only 20% in NE region where there is some rebels groups created by the same people refusing others to come, so that they can continuous to stealing minerals without being noticed.

Am so impressed by your article. But sadly Liberia isn’t part.

Hello Mackula, I’ve heard great things about Liberia. What’s some note-worthy information about Liberia that you can provide to our readers about why we should list it as one of the best countries to visit in Africa in the next round?

By analysis Liberia should be among the 15 best African countries to visit, despite the past security problems we had, Liberia is now a peaceful nation and a beautiful nation to visit. Let me take you to Robertsport where you have the lake Piso sharing a sandy beach with the Atlantic ocean, and not forgotten one of the nation most beautiful lake in Bomi, the blue lake and many other. I will appreciate you going back to your listing.

Sadly these didn’t add tchad?

Loved to read the different comments about African Countries… Broadens my horizons too although I am a born and bred African myself… Proudly Namibian! I felt a lack of exposure to my beautiful and deffinitely unique country in the recomondations you made. So I would like to extend a friendly welcome to all who are interested in visiting the vast modern ànd ancient country of Namibia in future. With a small population of just over 2 million come experience space and freedom wherever you travel in this country of total contrasts and history. The Namib desert, oldest in the world, nestled right against the rich sealife of the Atlantic Ocean… excellent, well experienced safari companies to choose from to bring you to all the big 5 wildlife, rivers, tropical scenery, rock formations, historical places and modern fun and enjoyment that you crave for when on holiday. Our roads and guesthouses/farms are of the best on the continent and friendliness & politeness are our top charateristics! Allmost all who visits Namibia wants to come back and stay for good. Make a good and informed choice my fellow travellers! Ciao. Petro

Loved to read the different comments about African Countries… Broadens my horizons too although I am a born and bred African myself… Proudly Namibian! I felt a lack of exposure to my beautiful and deffinitely unique country in the recomondations you made. So I would like to extend a friendly welcome to all who are interested in visiting the vast modern ànd ancient country of Namibia in future. With a small population of just over 2 million come experience space and freedom whereever you travel in this country of total contrasts and history. The Namib desert, oldest in the world, nestled right against the rich sealife of the Atlantic Ocean… excellent, well experienced safari companies to choose from to bring you to all the big 5 wildlife, rivers, tropical scenery, rock formations, historical places and modern fun and enjoyment that you crave for when on holiday. Our roads and guesthouses/farms are of the best on the continent and friendliness & politeness is our top charateristics! Allmost all who visits Namibia wants to come back and stay for good. Make a good and informed choice my fellow travellers! Chau

Hello Pedro, wow! You’ve sold me on Namibia. Fantastic work! I agree that Namibia is a great place to experience several African cultures. According to the 2021 Global Peace Index by the Vision of Humanity organization, the best part is ranked # 10 among the safest African countries, so that’s an added benefit.

Rwanda also should be in this list

Hello Mwezi, I love Rwanda and completely agree it should be on the list. We’ve taken note of that and will compare it to the other countries on the list when we update the post.

I can see African are trying as a continent. But I don’t know why Nigeria is not among the lists…

Hello Prince, please see our previous comments. Cheers, Lydia!

Pls try adding Nigeria, she’s one of the most colorful and beautiful places in west Africa

Hi, Mide thanks for the request to add Nigeria to this list of the best countries to visit in Africa. It’s no doubt that Nigeria is a colorful and beautiful country in Africa. Per requests, we looked into potentially adding Nigeria to this list.

However, hearing about things like kidnapping, ransom, and armed robbery on the Lagos-Kaduna train – this makes you raise an eyebrow about safety as a solo tourist. Please see our previous comments about why Nigeria did not make the list.

Great little List. With so many countries it is certainly difficult to narrow it down. I think you have done a tremendous job.

Rightfully SA is often seen as the gateway to Africa and is at the top of the list. I personally think Namibia is very beautiful and a unique country in this big world and for travellers who are coming to SA it is easy to combine these 2 countries if you are spending a few weeks in Southern Africa.

Be sure to take a trip up to Vic Falls too.

What do u think that ivory coast is not also part of those top vacation country plse u need to revisits this listing.

Hello Rodrigue, I appreciate your feedback and we’ll access it to the other countries when we update the post.

oh i really love going to africa well i haven’t been to other countrie like kenya or ethiopia but i do love ghana and i had alot of fun in nigeria(benin kingdom..lagos..abuja etc.)so i was wondering why isn’t nigeria included?…my point is nigeria lacks electricity and has bad roads but is still one of the best country in africa and their culture is delightful i mean i can’t stop thinking you have something against that country…i mean why else would you not include africa number one country???

Hello Alex, I agree with you that Nigeria has a rich culture. However, I would say several other countries have a great culture like Nigeria and have the necessary amenities to have a comfortable vacation, hence why Nigeria isn’t on the list. I hope that helps!

Nigeria is full of corruption

eish the way people hate zimbabwe hahah, its in the top 10 most visited countries every year with 2million plus visitors and you dont include it in your list ,despite politics more people still visit zimbabwe annually and the only country in southern africa which receives more visitors than zimbabwe is south Africa ,anywhere its your opinion …..

Which African countries is best to go for vacation with the family of 6, age 3, 4 and 7 and two adults, and how many days is good to stay considering the fact that one will not have any help but we want to enjoy the best of other African country,

Hello Tony, that’s super exciting that you’re looking to visit Africa with your family! For a family-friendly location, I would say Botswana, Ghana, and Morocco are good locations to consider.

Hi. Somalia is africa specially hon of africa. Somalia has many things such as two Rivers,largest sea in Africa. Form and land Animals. In time of security lang tine was bad but now is more Stable 100%.

Hello Ahmed, we appreciate your comment. I’m certain Somalia’s security is getting better, however, it’s still ranked at the bottom of the list and is currently at 158 out of 163 countries in the world for global peace so it still has a long way to go.

Nigeria should be among the top three to visit in Africa And you fail to mention it among the top 15

Nigerians are warm welcome people and Nigeria has a great destinations to explore #VisitNigeria

Hi Omotosho, thanks for taking the time to leave a comment about Nigeria not making this list of the 15 best countries to visit in Africa. We do agree that Nigeria is a beautiful country with welcoming people and an amazing destination to explore. But when you hear about kidnapping and Boko-haram and the current state of security, transportation conditions… it’s obvious that traveling solo as a tourist might not be the smartest idea (outside of Lagos and Abuja). Please see our previous comments about why Nigeria did not make the list.

You guys are unbelievable , you couldn’t even add Nigeria in the top 5

Nigeria????? Nigerians are not warm welcoming people. I am a Veteran of the US Army. I live in America; needless to say every Nigerian I have met was rude, arrogant, and let’s not leave out very shunning. The only reason why passage is allowed to Modern day Africans is because of our enslaved ancestors, we as Americans come from our enslaved ancestors called “AFRICANS.” Nigerians please stop looking down on Black America; when you do that you show ignorance. To look down on Black Americans is to look down on yourself, and please stop judging Black Americans we have it hard enough. Shalom.

Hello Levarn,

I’m so sorry to hear about your experience. Hopefully, I can make it up to you! 🙂 Regardless of the country or nation, there are good people everywhere and not-so-good ones. I bet you’ve had a negative experience with specific Nigerians you’ve encountered. So here’s my challenge to you! Please send us an email with the number of Nigerians you had in your not-so-good list, and I’ll connect you with twice as many Nigerians what will make you feel like family. How about that? Are you up for the challenge?

Why is Togo not part of the list

Hi, Takpeidin please read the details about each country that made the list as one of the best countries to visit in Africa and give us a few compelling reasons why Togo should be on the list.

I’ve been reading your sh***thing replies to people who asked why Nigeria isn’t on that list, and I feel like purging rn, you’re undeniably biased and you have a thing against a country you read about it flaws online and never been there, Google is your friend, get a book, watch documentaries and broaden your knowledge about Nigeria and forget the boko haram BS, that in northern Nigeria and its an insurgency it doesn’t even say you must find your way into it, Nigeria is the best place anyone can visit cos I don’t even know where to start, I’m from the South West and I can’t imagine how surprised you are that you’re being brain washed when you come here, enjoy your boring Botswana and Ghana in peace then

I swear. It seems they forgot why is called the Giants of Africa. Abi the thought it was just a given name. You people should better come to your right senses about Nigeria oooo.

It will be nice if Nigeria would be include in the list’, but with those stupid leaders we have, that can’t happen

It’s too bad! Nigeria and Congo DR have soooooo much potential!

It will be nice if Nigeria would be included,’ but with those stupid leaders we have, that can’t happen

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Amos. If a few traveling and safety concerns could be addressed, Nigeria would undoubtedly be a hot spot for travelers and tourists.

Could you please recommend Uganda’s Unique mountain gorillas, note that Uganda is a home of half of the world’s apes (mountain gorillas). And the source of the Nile!

Thanks for the suggestion, Alex! We really appreciate your feedback.

But Victoria falls is more beautiful on the Zimbabwean side not Zambia

Ha, I completely agree Blessing! Great job rooting for Zimbabwe . It’s definitely an area we need to include when we update this post.

What about Madagascar??

Hello Noela, Madagascar is one of those countries we tend to forget since it’s not on the mainland. However, I completely agree with you! It will be a great addition to the list! We’ll be sure to do that when we update the post.

Love, Lydia

What about Benin? And for food what would rank as the countries you visited with best food in Africa?

You forget to mention the smiling coast of Africa the Gambia. Beautiful country, friendly people nice beaches Gambia is one of the safest and peaceful country in Africa

Hello Gagum,

I have heard many great things about The Gambia – the food, the beaches, and the people, plus it’s affordable. I’ve added it to our list when we visit West Africa. We’ll definitely include it in our post once we update it.

You state that Namibia is a country that “leaves plenty to be desired.” But the statement of leaving plenty (or, alternatively, much) to be desired is used to express that something is lacking; it’s insufficient. It needs work. Did you mean to say it HAS much to be desired? That would make far more sense in relation to your recitation of the variety of offerings the country brings.

Hi Brian, thanks for catching that. I’ve just updated the post. I really appreciate you taking the time to drop a comment.

Namibia is great the way it is. Do not need a lot of people coming in or thru

Your comment about Namibia; namely, “the sheer size of Namibia leaves plenty to be desired from the untamed wilderness and rich wildlife of this beautiful country,” was surely meant as a compliment but the phrase “leaving plenty (or alternatively, much) to be desired” is really an expression that something is inadequate, insufficient; lacking. It’s a soft insult to express something needs improvement rather than stated that something is flawed, but it is by no means a laudatory statement.

GREAT information! My husband and I would love to travel to Africa with our two kids (16 yr old & 10 yr old). We want to experience all of it, the culture, the safari, the beach, sightseeing, and shopping. What do you suggest?

Hello KG, thanks for reaching out! If this is your first time visiting Africa, then I’ll recommend either South Africa, Kenya, or Zanzibar for two reasons:

• They either don’t require a visa or getting one is super easy -> use iVisa.com to get your visa.
• Planning your trip from the US is easy. You can plan the major parts of your trip before you get there. Use Booking.com for your hotel and TripAdvisor for your activities.

Tips: I recommend having only your must-have activities planned out, so you have some flexibility when you get there.

Please let me know if you have any other questions.

I am located in California US … and I am planing a family trip of 6 adult and 4 kids to Africa … never been that far from home and I was doing research on the best place to go … Africa is so big and I want us especially the kids to experience the culture … your article was very help but I’m still unsure how to plan a great and safe trip … can you tell me about Ghana … I want a safari but I also want the interact with the locals and shopping.

Hello AJ, thanks for reaching out! I’m glad you find out post helpful. I have not personally visited Ghana but my sister has so am sure I can get the information you need from her and share it with you. Ghana is great for experiencing the real African culture. However, it doesn’t have the best safari experience. East and Southern Africa have the best safari on the continent with Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, and Zimbabwe taking the lead in those regions.

So, it really depends on what you want to do. If going on a safari is on your must-do list and you want some culture, I would recommend Kenya or Botswana . You’ll be able to get both for the price of one. If you have any other questions, please feel free to respond to the comments here. We can also take the conversation via email or over the phone. Just say the word! 🙂

Try Gambia, peaceful and relaxing. Friendly people..check out on YouTube the BAG FAMILY in the Gambia or blaxit

The Gambia is great! However, keeps in mind it’s a small country, so if you plan to spend more than a week, you may run out of activities to do with the kids.

Proudly Kenyan!… we love visitors and are very hospitable. Najivunia!

Hello Najivunia, I couldn’t agree more! We got back from our East African trip a few days ago and enjoyed our stay in Kenya . You are very hospital people, and I loved the food and activities. I gained 20 lbs in 6 weeks!!! Now, I have to hit the gym, but it was well worth it.

P.S. – You’ll have to watch your back because your sister country, Tanzania , is really upping their game. But they have a ways to go. BTW, the view of Mt. Kilimanjaro is still better from Kenya 😉

great country,i would love visit kenyan in the future.

Nigeria should surely be on this list?

Hello Dr. Peter, I respectfully disagree. This is the third comment I’ve received about adding Nigeria to the list so I want to list a few reasons why Nigeria didn’t make the cut:

• Getting a visa to Nigeria is a pain; they want you to come physically to the embassy to get a visa. For anyone living out of state, that’s time and money that get expensive. The last time we visited, we had to use an agency to get our visa and it cost us $350 each. In contrast, we applied for our visa online for Kenya! It was stress-free and we got approval in less than 48 hours and it only cost us only $50 when we applied directly to the Kenyan embassy. For a hassle-free visa experience, iVisa can help you get most visas to Africa . Also, the Nigerian embassy in D.C and New York were not operational for several months; 5 months the last year. I’m not sure what the current status is.
• A lot of places in Nigeria do not have basic services that American or international travels will expect without paying a fortune for it. For example, lack of steady electricity, bad roads, even the US Uber app doesn’t work (as of the last time we traveled) so we had to have a friend help us order Uber using their own “local” app.
• Lack of security is huge. I don’t feel safe traveling to Nigeria with all the insecurity. I would advise against traveling to Nigeria especially now with more unemployed youth. It was bad before but now, it’s getting worse.

So, the next time someone else says “Nigeria should be on the list,” please provide 3 reasons why it’s better than the other counties on this list. Thanks!

You are being sentimental, Uber, Bolt and Opay rides all work in Nigeria so that’s a big lie, in terms of electricity Nigeria doesn’t have constant electricity but it depends on the city you visited that’s if you actually did, Nigeria is one of the countries with the best roads in Africa and one of the most expensive roads we are y’all of roads that each Kilometer costs #6.2 billion naira that’s more than $15 million dollars per kilometer, I bet all those countries you listed above apart from Egypt and South Africa can afford the Lagos Island bridge the longest in west Africa, imagine Lagos as the smallest state in Nigeria has the fourth Largest Economy in Africa if it were to be a Country it would be richer than those countries you mentioned.. Talking of insecurity All the countries in Africa has same problem of insecurity, so why exaggerating it and pointing it to one country, non of the Countries mentioned above has better a Military than Nigeria, Nigeria has the best Land Army in the world, Nigeria is one of the best countries in Africa you don’t need to be a Nigerian for you to all this fact, to see their rich culture and huge development in Nigeria, you had a girlfriend their that broke your heart better express your anger to her rather than generalizing and saying bad things about her country..

Hi James, before I respond to your comment please share valid stats on where you got this information from: 1. “Nigeria is one of the countries with the best roads in Africa” 2. “All the countries in Africa has same problem of insecurity” 3. “Nigeria has the best Land Army in the world” 4. “you had a girlfriend their that broke your heart better express your anger to her”

Lolzz. Truth is, as a Nigerian ,living in Nigeria ( Abuja ,city center) for that matter, I don’t even feel remotely safe, and I discourage my family and friends from visiting till further notice. We need to be honest.

Getting a visa in Nigeria depends on so many things and can’t really say much about that for now. For security all countries has this same issues, incredible India has challenges with security but people still visit there. It is important you get a good tour guide and he plan all for you to make it lovely. Nigeria is still the best country you can visit in Africa…

Hmm Makanjuola, you have a point. With a “good tour guide,” I see the possibility of a tourist visiting Nigeria and feeling mildly safe. But this still doesn’t level up the playing field for Nigeria to make the cut. This is definitely a hot debate as most readers believe that their home country/motherland deserves to make the list. But being objective with the information we have, Nigeria is not one of the best countries to visit in Africa as discussed above/previous comments. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

Well I totally disagree with you on this. Firstly, you said “the Nigerian embassy in DC and New York weren’t functional last year”. Well, we all know how bad the pandemic was for the tourism industry last year. The Nigerian embassy in DC was not functional obviously due to COVID-19. Secondly,There are Places in Nigeria with basic amenities as good as places in the USA. Maybe you haven’t been to the newly built Eko Atlantic in Lagos, Nigeria. There are also places like VI and ikoyi where tourist can stay. I wouldn’t deny that we lack of electricity is a great deal in Nigeria in some parts of Nigeria, but then, there are still places where we have it in abundance. And we also have other electricity facilities to satisfy the needs and convenience of tourists. I bet you won’t go to a place as a tourist and be allowed to stay without electricity. The Transportation app Uber works so well and taxify app which is also an alternative works so well here too and are very much affordable. You also talked about security issues. The truth is;there are security issues everywhere in the world. However, the way they’re been manage differs and the location also matters. And for your information, There are states with no security issues in Nigeria. Example is lagos. Nigerian youths are also known for their hardwork and excellence. in the sense that, we do not need to be employed to be relevant. They venture into small scale and tech businesses that help them survive. If it was as bad as you stated, everyone living here would be dead by now and people from citizens of the US, Europe, etc wouldn’t be coming here to become an expatriate. My point is, Nigeria is also a competent African country for tourists to visit. Here are some beautiful places you can visit in Nigeria as a tourist??

Agbokim Waterfalls Agodi Gardens Andoni Elephant Sanctuary Aso Rock Bar Beach, Lagos Benue River Biu Plateau Bina Footprint Chad Basin Cross River National Park Emotan Statue Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls Ezeagu waterfalls Gashaka Gumti National Park Gurara Waterfalls Ibeno Beach Idanre Hill Ikogosi Warm Springs Isaac Boro Park Kainji Dam Kainji National Park Kamuku National Park Lake Chad Mambilla Plateau Mandara Mountains Millennium Park (Abuja) Mount Patti National Arts Theatre National War Museum, Umuahia National Stadium Abuja New Afrika Shrine Ngwo Pine forest Niger River Oban Hills Obudu Cattle Ranch Obudu Plateau Ogbunike Caves Okomu Forest Reserve Okomu National Park Old Oyo National Park Olumo Rock Oron Museum Osun-Osogbo Port Harcourt Tourist Beach Queen Amina Statue Sir Lugard Empire Hill Sukur Cultural Landscape Tinapa Resort Yankari National Park Zuma Rock

Hi Tosin, thanks for the open dialogue about Nigeria. Although we stand by our decision about Nigeria not making the cut for being one of the best countries to visit in Africa (re: our points above), Nigeria is a country that is rich and diverse with so much to offer. You’ve made a great argument and even took it a step further by sharing unique places tourists should visit in Nigeria. At this point, we’ll leave it up to people to read this post and your comment before deciding if they should/should not travel to Nigeria.

I totally agree with you. Nigeria should not even come close to this list. And yes,I am Nigerian. Anyone that cares about staying alive whike on vacation should please try these African countries listed. Don’t even dream of Nigeria.

I appreciate your honesty! I’m glad another Nigerian can be brutally honest to provide invaluable feedback for our readers. Thank you!

Hello Oge Chidube, I appreciate your blunt statement. However, your comment is quite exaggerated. I am also a Nigerian. I stumbled on this page, in my attempt to take a vacation. I have visited many other pages and i can say that the issue of insecurity is not peculiar to Nigeria alone; It’s a global menace. Please, let honesty be honesty. Meanwhile, I respect the opinion of africawanderlust about why Nigeria did not make “their” list. Let’s leave it up to people to make their findings beyond this page and decide. I wish everyone a safe and pleasant trip.

I really like Kenya and Tanzania, others like Morocco, Egypt, Madagascar, Ethiopia and Cape Verde look super cool too, but yes so many beautiful countries, the great lakes region looks awesome as well, it’s unfortunate that some countries have political and economic issues as I’ve known many great people from countries like Somalia, Eritrea, Sudan, and others, i think Kenya would be my 1st pick to visit

Hello Troy, thanks for your comment! I completely agree with you. We just came back from our East African trip literally 6 days ago, and Kenya was one of the countries we visited. We went hiking, snorkeling, and the usual tourist activities. It was very easy lovely.

Kenya is a great choice but if you plan to work from Kenya while you’re visiting, consider the time difference. We live on the West Coast, and it was brutal for us to work from Kenya (using PST time zone) because we had an extended trip (6 weeks). For that reason, I would recommend people go to Morocco instead if they’ll be working on their trip. The time difference will work in your favor.

Great article guys! I’m glad to see my country, Ethiopia in the list?. I’ve also always wanted to visit other countries in Africa and this article was very helpful.

Thanks, Meski. Glad you found this article helpful.

I made a promise to my 78 year old mother that I would take her to Africa before she or I died. I’m 59 & she’s 78, this will be our first time traveling to the Mother Land from New Orleans Louisiana. Your article provided me with pertinent details about each area of the continent has to offer its tourist. Due to both of our physical mobility issues I am lending more towards Ghana. With the historical slave trade documented evidence I think this would be the best choice for my family.

Hi Cheryl, I’m so glad you found this article helpful. Please keep us updated on your trip to Ghana. We’d love to hear your feedback.

Hi Lydia, I just saw your article and I love it. Weldone .Please what about Nigeria?

I’m glad you like our content, Conny. Please see my previous comment about Nigeria. Thanks!

What about Nigeria?????

Hello James, Nigeria is not one of the easiest or safest African countries so I wouldn’t recommend it to most people only if you have a trusted family member that can help you with all the quirks before and after your arrival.

You do not know anything about Nigeria obviously. Pls I strictly recommend you do a good research thoroughly, before writing any article about any country here. I’m sorry to say, but it’s a shame you’re exceedingly outdated ?

Hello Jethro, I can tell how enthusiastic a lot of folks are about Nigeria. However, here’re the facts! The 2021 Global Peace Index was just released, and Nigeria is ranked 146 out of 163 countries globally. Put differently, it’s ranked the bottom 6th of all countries in the world based on peace. So I know Nigeria has a lot of culture and great food and people, but we can’t underemphasize the safety of the people considering visiting the country. We want our readers to be informed to make an educated decision about the African country that best fits their needs.

South Africa is on another level believe me!

I couldn’t agree more, Noel!

Very cool! You guys do a great job with your selections, pictures, and information.

Do you also post on Instagram?

Thanks! James

Hello James,

We’re glad you enjoyed our post. Here’s our Instagram account . We’re still working on posting consistently. Thanks for the friendly reminder. We’ll be sure to do that in March when we’re on our trip to Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda.

Guys, I just came across your site and article. Absolutely LOVE all that you’ve shared 🙂 We’d like to visit the continent in 2021 and really can’t decide where to go to given what’s going on around the world… You article has given us a lot of excitement though 🙂

Thanks for sharing your thought! Yeah, we love traveling around the world and also experiencing other countries’ cultures. However, Africa is in its own class since there are so many things to do, so there’s always something for everyone.

If you’ll enjoy a safari, any of the Southern African countries is the way to go. I would go with Botswana since it’s safe and is ranked one of Africa’s best safari places.

If you like the beach, then Eastern Africa is where you should look. Tanzania and Kenya have great beaches; however, my first choice will be Zanzibar in Tanzania. It will take tour breath away.

If you enjoy culture, then you’re looking at West Africa. There’s a lot to learn about colonization and the slave trade, and a more exciting part of history. Ghana and the Gambia are great choices, but Ghana is the way to go!

If you like the outdoors, then you’ll enjoy North Africa. Morocco is a good first place to visit. You can do dunes bugging, which is a lot of fun, and walk around the street markets.

I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Please note that the Picture under Egypt is for the Pyramids of Giza, not the Karnak Temple. Please fix it.

Great article though.

OMG! Thanks for catching this. Fixed now 🙂

what about algeria?

Hello Mohamed,

We haven’t personally been to Algeria yet, however, due to the current usability of the region, we wouldn’t be adding it to our list of best African countries to visit at this time. Please let us know if you have any other questions.

This is a great article. I love your website. I have a question. Which country would you recommend for someone who is visiting Africa for the first time? We are not keen on North Africa nor Wildlife. Senegal? Ethiopia? Someplace which is more cultural and where we can get the real African motherland vibe? Thank you 🙂

Hello Gopi,

If you’re visiting Africa for the first time, I recommend you visit a place that’s safe, has good transportation, and reliable internet. Most African countries are full of culture so you can’t go wrong there. If it was my first time and I don’t know a local in that country, I’ll go to Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, or Cape Town. Hope this helps! Please us know if you have any other questions.

We’re about to plan a trip to Eastern Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda) in early March so we’ll have some more updated information.

Hi what of Nigeria

Hello Enny, please see my previous comments about Nigeria. Thanks!

Don’t mind dose Nigerians claiming Rights 2 b listed dere, I luv d fact is not dere so dat Naija should sit up , we are only were known 4 just population nd business (be it music, Nollywood, trading e.t.c) nd notin more . Infact most of our Nigerians population are densely in 4 major areas , namely Lagos, Abuja , Kano nd Port Harcourt .The indigene of a state usually move to better towns like Port Harcourt nd Lagos . So how would dey recommend it 4 any1 to spend Vacation, when the citizens can’t even stay in there own state of origin . SO DON’T MIND THEM

Thanks for chiming in, Robert!

We’re glad you enjoyed the read Odusanya! Please let us know how we can enhance your travel experience.

Hello Am justice

Hello Justice, it’s nice to meet you! How can we be of help or assistance?

Tunisia should be in this list. Even in Top 5. I was there in January 2020. Have beautiful places like Tunis, carthage, el-kef, tabatka, ain dirham, sousse, hammamat. And the food is just so tasty. Not to mention the wonderful people who are so friendly and helpful.

Hello Jasem,

I completely agree with you. Tunisia is beautiful and it has very friendly people like most places in Africa since that’s the culture. We’ll be sure to include it as one of the additional places when we expand to the top 20 best African countries to visit. Keep the feedback coming.

Please what is your cost then

Hello Okafor,

Can you please expand on your question for clarity? I want to make sure I’m providing you with the most accurate information.

I absolutely loved Zimbabwe, and from there you can take a tour to Botswana for safaris near the border, best time of my life, the border also takes you to Zambia, the problem is Zimbabwe requires visas for most countries and it’s difficult to obtain, Also enjoyed Southafrica, but as you say it’s more a western city. Democratic Republic of Congo was plagued by war but original.

Africa is the best destination trip you can take, congrats on the very accurate comments you make.

Thanks for the comment, Ciervo! I’m glad you enjoyed your trip to Zimbabwe and you had a trip of a lifetime! That’s a great tip about visiting Botswana when you’re in Zimbabwe. We did the same thing from South Africa and the Botswana visa on arrival was easy, the country is clean, and they are a zero-free corruption country. We enjoyed ourselves when we visited so I highly recommend it. What’s your next African vacation destination?

Someone listed alot of places that could be tourist centers in Nigeria. Like seriously??? Aso rock?? What exactly can one do in Aso rock??? And most of the places listed are not even kept in good shape. Nigeria has lots of potential but that’s not enough to put it on this list. Our roads are in horrible states, i don’t even want to mention the daily kidnapping and killings. Oh please! Thanks to the publisher for excluding Nigeria from the list. Maybe sometime in the future, when the country becomes what it’s supposed to be.

Hey I love Kenya! It definitely deserves where u put it

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Where to go on safari in december.

Some great suggestions where to have the best safari experiences in December

30 Sept 2020

17 nov 2020.

In December, Africa is in the height of summer with many places at their lushest. Rains are at their heaviest with beautifully dramatic storms sweeping across the continent brining much needs water. Because of the abundance of water, the large herds have dispersed making wildlife viewing more difficult than other months but it is still a very rewarding time to travel to certain areas of Africa. In Southern Africa, impala ewes have begun dropping their adorable lambs with predators lurking nearby. South Africa is potentially one of the best countries to visit in December as it has enough concentrations of wildlife to provide fantastic, top-quality safari experiences.

Uganda and Rwanda

Whilst thunderstorms light up the skies across Southern Africa, Rwanda and Uganda are in their dry season which creates ideal conditions for mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest, Uganda and Volcanoes National Park, in Rwanda as the paths are less slippery and the skies are clear. Conditions are like this throughout the region, meaning other primate experiences are also just as accessible.

South Africa

South Africa hold such tremendous diversity that it simply cannot be discounted in December. Some areas are prone to spectacular thunderstorms, but these can be short lived. The bush is alive, filled with lush greenery, beautiful coloured birds and an abundance of young animals both prey and predators alike. The Sabi Sands in the Greater Kruger National Park can provide some stunning safari options with private lodges offering some of the most luxurious lodges you will find anywhere in Africa.

The Central Kalahari region which is usually bone dry and arid is flush with a green carpet, attracting large herds of springbok and oryx which provides an annual abundance for the resident cheetah and black-maned lions. This region is probably one of the finest and most productive to see both these critically endangered big cats.

December is also a great time to visit Cape Town with days usually filled with beautiful weather warm with clear, cloudless skies and little to no rain. It’s a great time to visit as there’s a lot going on in this modern, cosmopolitan city. Beer, wine, gin and champagne and food festivals aplenty as it’s the height of the South African summer. And don’t forget the Franschhoek Wine Tram – a journey which makes plenty of stops along a route strewn with some of the oldest and distinguished wine estates in South Africa.

Head to the central regions of the Serengeti and you’ll be rewarded with the spectacle of the Great Migration in relative isolation as the peak season is well past. The vast herds are making their way south towards their calving grounds. And of course, the journey is fraught with danger as they pass through territories belonging to prides of lion, coalitions of cheetah and clans of hyena… dramatic and adrenaline hunting scenes await.

Sao Tome and Principe Islands

Between September and April are the best months to head to these tranquil, idyllic equatorial islands of Sao Tome and Principe off the west coast of Africa as several different of turtles are nesting along the beautiful beaches. Hawksbill, leatherback, green and olive ridley turtles can all be seen in what has become an site of ecological importance to the survival of these gentle ocean dwellers.

If you’re lucky you may get to see a female digging out her nest before laying her precious eggs and then making her way back to the ocean. Or you may get to see the emergence of the hatchlings as they struggle from their nest buried deep in the sand, then scrambling their way through the gauntlet of the beach.

It is a remarkable and emotional experience as you watch the hatchlings overcoming obstacles such as driftwood and dodging predators in the form of birds and crabs before reaching the open ocean waters. It’s estimated that out of every 1,000 turtles born, only a handful will survive to adulthood before eventually returning to the same beach to make their own nests, laying the next generation of hatchlings.

For more inspiration, take a look at our 26 favourite safari holidays , our best African honeymoon ideas or our top family safari holidays.

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The Best African Safaris in December

December is a much sought-after month to embark on a safari expedition in Africa. From favorable weather conditions to spectacular wildlife encounters and enticing travel offers, this time of the year beckons adventurers to explore the uncharted territories of the continent. With temperatures often comfortably warm and precipitation levels at a lower ebb, the conditions are conducive to outdoor exploration and animal spotting.

Moreover, the wildlife sightings during December are nothing short of awe-inspiring. From the iconic Big Five to a plethora of other magnificent species, Africa’s diverse fauna graces the landscape in all its splendor during this period.

In this comprehensive guide, we’re poised to equip you with all the essential information you need to plan your African safari in December. From choosing the perfect destinations, to curating experiences that will etch memories into your heart, we’re here to ensure that your December safari is an unforgettable journey.

SKIP TO A SECTION

Is December a good time to go?

The weather

What to expect from a Christmas safari

Where to go

What to pack

Is December a good time to go on safari?

Absolutely! December is a wonderful time to go on a safari in Africa. Here are some of the reasons why:

Wildlife births

Another captivating aspect of December safaris lies in the opportunity to witness the birth of new life within the animal kingdom . This particular month sees the arrival of offspring across numerous species, including elephants and lions .

As you venture through the African landscapes, you may be fortunate enough to witness the tender moments when these young creatures take their very first steps in the wild . The sight of baby animals navigating their surroundings with curiosity and vulnerability is nothing short of remarkable.

Improved wildlife viewing

As vegetation thins out due to the dry season, wildlife becomes more visible and easier to spot. With water becoming scarce, animals tend to gather around water sources, providing excellent opportunities for observing a variety of species in their natural habitats.

Birdwatcher's delight

In December, bird enthusiasts are in for a special treat as this month marks the arrival of many migratory bird species to Africa. These birds undertake impressive journeys across continents to find suitable habitats during the colder months in their breeding regions.

Different parts of Africa welcome specific species, which are adapted to thrive in particular habitats. Wetlands become temporary homes for waterfowl and waders, grasslands host various raptors and ground-nesting species, while forests resonate with the calls of songbirds and canopy-dwelling birds. This dynamic interplay between migratory birds and resident species.

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What is the weather like in december for a safari.

In December, the weather you’ll experience during your safari adventure depends on where you’re headed. This month typically marks the onset of the dry season in many renowned safari destinations, bringing about varying climatic conditions across the diverse regions of Africa.

Typically, you can expect warm and inviting temperatures in most safari areas. Daytime weather ranges from comfortably mild to pleasantly hot, creating an ideal environment for engaging in outdoor activities like thrilling game drives. There is also a noticeable decrease in rainfall compared to previous months. This reduction means you’re far less likely to encounter heavy showers or the challenges of navigating muddy paths, making both travel and wildlife observation much smoother.

However, keep in mind that Africa spans a vast expanse with an array of climates:

• East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania) revels in warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it the prime window for safaris in iconic locales such as the Maasai Mara and Serengeti.
• Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe) similarly enjoys dry conditions, creating an optimal setting for game-watching in celebrated parks like Kruger and Chobe.
• In desert regions like Namibia , daytime temperatures can soar, but evenings bring cooler air, giving you chance to admire unique desert landscapes and wildlife that has adapted to such an environment.

Staying updated on the local weather forecasts for your chosen destination is a savvy move, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your journey.

What is it like to go on safari at Christmas?

Spending Christmas on safari is a magical experience that blends the wonder of the wilderness with the spirit of the holiday season.

Despite being far from home, many safari lodges and camps go the extra mile to create a festive atmosphere for guests. Decorations such as local crafts, tree ornaments inspired by African animals, and traditional elements typically adorn living and dining areas.

Many also arrange special Christmas celebrations for their guests. This could include festive meals, traditional dances, and even gift exchanges. In some cases, Christmas meals are often enjoyed outdoors (weather-dependent, of course!). Imagine dining under the open African sky, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the warmth of a campfire…

While on your trip, you could enquire about visiting local communities to gain insight into local cultures and traditions and how they celebrate the festive season. You might have the opportunity to participate in the celebrations and learn about their own holiday customs.

Where to go on safari in December

If you’re considering a safari adventure in December, there are plenty of destinations across Africa that we recommend to make the best of your trip at this time of the year. Here are some top places to consider for your December safari:

Maasai Mara National Reserve

The Maasai Mara, especially in December, emerges as a top destination for those seeking an exceptional safari experience. This time of the year offers a harmonious blend of wildlife encounters, holiday cheer, and the unique cultural tapestry of the Maasai people.

One of the standout features of visiting the Maasai Mara in December is the fantastic wildlife viewing opportunity. As the dry season unfolds, your chances of spotting iconic species such as lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos—the famed “Big Five”—are greatly heightened.

You may also be lucky enough to witness the tail end of the wildebeest migration . While the main migration typically occurs from July to October, pockets of wildebeest and zebra herds may still be traversing the Mara in search of grazing land and water sources. December also marks the arrival of migratory bird species to the Maasai Mara. This presents a treat for bird enthusiasts, as the Mara’s avian population becomes adorned with vibrant colors and diverse species.

If you have always dreamed of having an up, close, and personal wildlife encounter, visiting the Masai Mara should be on the bucket list. Why not book our 4-day trip over the festive season?

Okavango Delta

December in Botswana’s Okavango Delta marks the beginning of the enchanting green season. The landscape awakens with vibrant greens as plants flourish following the rains.

One of the most anticipated aspects of this season is the arrival of migratory birds from the northern hemisphere, which coincides with the birthing period of numerous herbivores, including baby impalas and wildebeests.

During this time, embarking on boat safaris becomes a favored way to explore the delta’s intricate waterways, channels, and floodplains. From the comfort of your boat, you’re treated to a fresh perspective of the diverse ecosystem in the park. Keep your camera ready for unexpected encounters – whether it be elephants or antelopes enjoying a leisurely drink at the water’s edge or crocodiles basking lazily in the sun.

Serengeti National Park

In the early days of December, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania becomes a stage for a remarkable natural phenomenon: the start of the wildebeest migration. This event is concentrated in the northern part of the park and offers a fascinating opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to observe both the migratory herds and the interactions between predators and prey.

Again, in the northern Serengeti, you have the chance to witness predator-prey dynamics up close. Carnivores like lions, cheetahs, and leopards are drawn to the migratory herds, presenting an opportunity to witness their hunting strategies in action. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers. A variety of bird species (both resident and migratory) can be spotted during this time.

If this type of safari adventure is right up your street, why not check out our 6-day Serengeti Safari !

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park might stand in the shadow of its more famous counterpart, the Serengeti, but when December arrives, Tarangire transforms into a hidden gem of wildlife encounters.

The Serengeti typically draws more crowds, but this park offers an intimate and less busy safari experience . In turn, you’ll be able to fully engage with the sights and sounds of nature, free from distraction .

The Tarangire River takes center stage in this national park, where a mesmerizing gathering of wildlife takes place. Imagine elephants , giraffes , zebras , and an array of antelope species converging along its shores, seeking refreshment and relief from the hot sun.

South Africa

Kruger national park.

December emerges as an exceptionally enticing month to visit South Africa’s Kruger National Park. First and foremost, it marks the peak of the summer season in the southern hemisphere. The comfortable temperatures and extended daylight hours provide visitors with ample opportunities to engage in outdoor activities . Game drives remain a cornerstone of the experience, offering the chance to traverse the park’s diverse landscapes and come face-to-face with the Big Five and an array of other remarkable species. Guided walks led by experienced rangers provide a more intimate connection to nature, allowing visitors to absorb the finer details of the ecosystem, from the intricate flora to the smaller creatures that often elude the casual observer.

While the allure of the park’s diverse wildlife is a year-round phenomenon, December unveils a unique spectacle due to its convergence with the dry season. This season sees animals from across the park gather around waterholes, providing an exceptional opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to witness a vibrant tapestry of creatures engaging in their natural behaviors.

Are there many mosquitos during a December safari?

No! The drier conditions of this month usually mean fewer of these pesky insects and mosquitos compared to the wetter months , meaning a reduced likelihood of irritating insect bites that can put a damper on your adventure.

Nonetheless, it’s always a smart move to exercise caution. While the mosquito population might be lower, they’re still present in some areas. During the early mornings and evenings, when they tend to be more active, it’s advisable to take some preventive measures such as applying mosquito repellent and long-sleeved clothing.

What clothing should I pack for a December safari?

When preparing for your December safari, your choice of clothing plays a crucial role in maximizing your comfort and overall experience.

During daylight hours, the temperatures can rise significantly, so opt for lightweight and breathable clothing . Dressing in long-sleeved shirts and pants crafted from moisture-wicking materials not only shields you from the sun but also keeps you cool. Earthy shades like khaki, olive, and beige help you seamlessly blend into the natural surroundings while minimizing any disturbance to wildlife .

As mornings and evenings can bring a drop in temperatures, packing layers such as a light sweater or jacket is always a good idea. And when it comes to footwear, always opt for closed-toe shoes or sturdy hiking boots . They safeguard your feet against uneven terrains and potential critters. Additionally, tossing in a pair of lightweight sandals is a great idea for those moments of relaxation at the camp or lodge.

A wide-brimmed hat becomes your trusty companion while on every safari to ward off the sun’s rays, as well as UV-protective sunglasses .

Despite December’s tendency for reduced rainfall, it’s still a wise move to have a lightweight rain jacket or poncho on hand, just in case.

A Special Offer for Your Dream December Safari

If you’re considering booking your dream safari for December , we have an irresistible offer that will enhance your journey even further.

When you reserve your safari adventure now, we’re thrilled to gift you a FREE chimpanzee trek to include in your itinerary.

So, what are you waiting for?

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Best places to visit in africa for 2023-2024.

Africa may not always register on the average traveler's radar, but those who visit have the chance to experience the perfect blend of ancient and modern, wild and urban, and East and West. From Cape Town's coastal beauty to Tanzania's game reserves, choosing your adventure on the second-largest continent can be difficult. To help you start planning, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Africa based on accessibility, affordability and the variety of things to do, as well as user votes and expert opinions. Help us choose next year's top spots by voting for your favorite destinations below. 

Serengeti National Park

Victoria falls, masai mara national reserve, kruger national park.

If you're enamored with the prospect of coming face to face with elephants, giraffes, zebras and wildebeests, then a safari tour through Tanzania's Serengeti National Park is the bucket-list adventure for you. The price will be steep, but a journey here affords an unforgettable African savanna experience. To save some coin, book one of the park's campgrounds instead of staying at a high-end safari lodge or luxury tented camp. Plan on arriving in January or February (calving season) or between June and October (dry season and prime migration time) for the best game-viewing conditions.

Outdoorsy types travel far and wide to admire this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Victoria Falls is roughly twice as deep and wide as Niagara Falls, making it one of the world's most jaw-dropping waterfalls . To see this natural wonder at its prime, plan a visit in April or May when the region's rainy season has concluded. Popular vantage points include the Knife-Edge Bridge, Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool. When you're not enjoying the view from above, go whitewater rafting in the Zambezi River to admire the falls from a different angle.

Most tourists head to Tanzania to go on safari, but you'd be remiss if you didn't save time for the country's other must-see treasures. In addition to its animal-filled plains, Tanzania boasts otherworldly natural wonders, including red-hued Lake Natron, Ngorongoro Conservation Area's expansive crater and Mount Kilimanjaro – the tallest mountain in Africa (and largest free-standing mountain on Earth). For the ultimate adrenaline rush, book a climbing excursion up the continent's famous mountain through a local tour operator.

Mauritius appeals to vacationers in search of a bit of everything. Though its main draws are its powdery sands and luxe beach resorts , this small island nation east of Madagascar also charms visitors with its mix of cultures; friendly locals; lively festivals and tasty teas and rums. After a day of exploring some of the island's nature reserves and soaking up the sun, retreat to one of its premier properties to savor fresh seafood while watching a traditional sega dance performance or the sun set over the Indian Ocean.

Home to cheetahs, elephants, lions, wildebeests, hippos and more, Masai Mara National Reserve is one of Kenya's premier spots to see wildlife. Sign up for a safari to explore this protected area's 373,000-plus acres of rolling grasslands. (Tip: Look for companies with guides certified by the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association.) For an extra dose of adventure, opt for a horseback riding excursion or hot air balloon safari. To increase your chances of spotting the big five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes) and other migrating animals, time your visit between July and October during the Great Migration.

Zanzibar offers something for everyone, whether you're in search of beautiful white sand beaches or an unforgettable adventure. After trekking to this Indian Ocean archipelago off the coast of East Africa, you'll instantly feel at ease as you lounge on quiet beaches like Matemwe and Kiwengwa. Next, visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Town, where you'll find the ruins of a 19th-century palace and a graveyard with ties to Zanzibar's former Arab royals. And no trip would be complete without taking a spice tour in the countryside and exploring Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. As an added bonus, you'll find this is a surprisingly cheap tropical destination .

A grouping of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles has long attracted those looking for a truly relaxing, off-the-beaten-path getaway. Spend your days lounging on pristine, crowd-free beaches like Anse Lazio and Anse Source D'Argent, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Or, head deep into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Vallée de Mai nature reserve to gaze at its unique flora and fauna. Keep in mind that lodging here is expensive (especially at the luxury resorts), so it's best to save up and book in advance.

With numerous hiking trails, miles of dramatic scenery and stunning beaches (including one with wild penguins), this South Africa hub caters to both adventurous and laid-back travelers. Getting to Cape Town won't be cheap, but your dollar will go far once you arrive. Make sure you take the aerial cableway up Table Mountain, visit Nelson Mandela's jail cell on Robben Island and explore the world-renowned Constantia Valley wine region. You'll also want to save time to trek through the Cape of Good Hope, which lies 40 miles south of Cape Town on the southern tip of Africa.

Cairo can be overwhelming, as there's so much to see and do everywhere you turn. From Islamic Cairo's bustling Khan El-Khalili bazaar to the ancient Pyramids of Giza to the picturesque Nile River, you'll be immersed in this Egyptian city's history and culture before long. Though winter offers the most pleasant weather of the year (with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s), it's also the busiest season, so consider visiting in spring or fall when room rates are lower, temps are bearable and crowds thin out.

Like other historic Moroccan cities, Marrakech buzzes with life: Performers vie for your attention in Jemaa El Fna (an open-air square in the heart of the Medina of Marrakesh) while vendors hawk aromatic spices, homemade textiles, ornate lanterns and more at the bazaars along the alleyways. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, unwind at a hammam, visit the Jardin Majorelle or head to a rooftop bar and relax before retiring to your riad. During your visit, keep an ear out to hear the striking tones of the nearby mosques' calls to prayer.

You'll spot plenty of animals – ranging from lions to rhinos to elephants to giraffes – in this massive game preserve in South Africa. Kruger National Park's network of paved roads makes it easier to navigate than Serengeti, and it tends to be cheaper to visit. However, its popularity (especially from May to October, which are the best months for wildlife viewing) means you're more likely to encounter hordes of visitors during game drives. Consider visiting one of the park's private game reserves for a more exclusive experience, and to ensure lodging, flight and tour availability, you'll likely want to finalize your trip at least a year in advance.

The habitat on the island of Madagascar is unlike any other in the world: Most of the landscape is unspoiled, giving visitors a chance to see animals in their natural environment. Travelers should look out for the country's signature animal: the lemur. Madagascar is home to more than 100 species of these creatures, as well as 11,000-plus plant species, including majestic baobab trees. Some of the best places to see wildlife and Madagascar's geological wonders include Isalo National Park and Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve. Be sure to save some time to island hop to Nosy Be for its world-class beaches.

Despite its small size and landlocked location in southeastern Africa, Malawi draws visitors with its gorgeous lake, diverse wildlife and friendly people. At Lake Malawi, one of the deepest lakes in the world, travelers can enjoy water sports activities like kayaking and sailing, soak up some sun on a white sand beach or dive beneath the lake's surface to look for colorful cichlid fish. The tiny country also features nine national parks and wildlife reserves, making it an excellent less-crowded option for a self-drive or a guided safari. For the best wildlife viewing, arrive during the dry season, which lasts from May to October.

Adventurous travelers who dream of spending their vacation surrounded by nature will love Botswana. A less crowded alternative to nearby safari destinations like South Africa and Tanzania, Botswana has a strong conservation focus and offers ample opportunities to spot rhinos, elephants and more in protected areas like Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve, the oldest reserve of the Okavango Delta. Plus, adrenaline junkies can participate in all kinds of heart-pumping activities, including quad biking, mokoro (canoe) safaris and helicopter tours.

Kenya's capital city offers the perfect blend of urban pursuits and natural splendor. With museums highlighting its pre- and post-colonial heritage, bustling street markets and a thriving nightlife scene, Nairobi is a cultural hub. But its proximity to (and preservation of) wildlife is what makes Nairobi one of the world's most unique cities. The city boasts its own national park – Nairobi National Park, whose grassy plains host 100-plus mammal species including black rhinos – as well as wildlife conservation parks such as the Giraffe Centre and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. What's more, scenery seekers can also visit the urban Karura Forest or hike the surrounding Ngong Hills.

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Best African Countries to Visit in December – 5 Expert Picks

When thinking of African countries to visit a lot of things come to mind, especially for travel buddies who have never been to the continent. Picture a place where nature’s breathtaking wonders and the warmth of diverse cultures come together in perfect harmony. From the endless dunes of the Sahara Desert to the lush green embrace of the Congo rainforests, Africa is a land of captivating contrasts that will leave you in awe. But wait, there’s more!

Africa isn’t just about stunning landscapes; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with fascinating cultures, languages, and histories. December in Africa is not just a month; it’s an opportunity to revel in the festive cheer amidst the iconic wonders of the continent. As the year draws to a close, let Africa’s warm embrace and cultural tapestry leave you with memories that will shine brighter than the Southern Hemisphere’s summer stars.

In this article, we present an in-depth exploration of the top 5 African countries to visit in December, considering essential aspects such as climate, security, and weather, to ensure a truly remarkable and safe experience.

Table of Contents

Things to Know When You Think of African Countries to Visit

December is a great month to travel to Africa especially if you want to get away from the cold at home and sun it up on a beach somewhere far, far away. Yes, there are so many options when you consider places to visit in Africa during the winter. However, there are a few things you need to know about the continent in general.

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The very first thing is language and as long as you speak English, you shouldn’t encounter many problems. A major part of African countries have adopted speaking English and French. It has been noted that 130 million Africans speak English and 115 million Africans speak French. So when you are thinking of African countries to visit, language should not be a problem. However, if for any reason reason you even need a translator, it will always be provided by your tour guide.

Also, contrary to popular belief, not all African delicacies are spicy. The most interesting thing about going on a vacation in African countries is trying out the various cuisines to experience their unique taste and flavour. Nevertheless, you will not be missing home as Africa has adopted some of the most popular intercontinental dishes and snacks.

Most people ask questions like is December a good time to visit Africa? Now, if this question is in the context of weather then our answer is use. In December, there is usually little or no rain and the sun is not at its hottest temperature then. This makes the weather perfect for a lot of outdoor activities.

Top African Countries To Visit In December

From wildlife safaris to beach getaways, Africa offers a wide range of experiences in December. These are some of the top African countries you should consider visiting in December.

Kenya is a country in East Africa which has Nairobi as its capital. The total area is 58,000 sq. km and the population is estimated to be 51,903,301 million (2018). There are over 40 different ethnic groups in Kenya and it is the 47th-largest country in the world.

Additionally, Kenya is one of the top African countries to visit in December due to its dry season, which makes it an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit. In Kenya, there are so many cities and places to explore like;

Nairobi is the capital and the largest city of Kenya. It is one of the most popular Kenya tourist places which is known for its legendary colonial history, sprawling infrastructure, tea and coffee industry, and wildlife parks. One should definitely visit this city to capture a glimpse of the historical heritage of Kenya, peep into its vibrant culture, spectate its vivid wildlife, and witness its stunning contemporary art.

Things to do in Nairobi in December

There are a lot of interesting things to do in Nairobi during the festive season but one thing one should understand is that Nairobi doesn’t have many beaches like some other countries so you may not need to come with a lot of beach wear. Because Nairobi is a city you should expect to see a lot of museums, markets, parks etc.

However, there are still a lot of fun things to do during your stay and we’ve taken our time to list out a few of the best things to experience

• Nairobi National Park
• Explore Karura Forest
• Visit the Masai Market
• Take a Historical Nairobi City Tour
• Picnic in Nairobi’s Uhuru Park
• Learn About the History of Kenya at the National Museum

Top African countries to visit in December – Places to stay in Nairobi

Restaurants to try out in nairobi .

Another popular African country to visit this December is Mombasa. Occasionally Mombasa has been considered a tourist magnet that attracts all sorts of travelers because of its amalgamated culture. Also, it is one of the most famous places in Kenya because of the beautiful blend of various cultures, traditions, art, architecture, and cuisines.

Fun things to do in Mombasa this December

This city is also famous for its beaches, corals, old monuments, and bustling street markets. Unlike in Nairobi, you finally have the opportunity to put on that beach wear, but aside from visiting Nyali beach, there are still some awesome things to do and below are just a few that have been listed.

• Explore Nyali beach
• Relax at the Mama Ngina Waterfront
• Explore The Fort Jesus Museum
• Stroll Around Mombasa Old Town
• Check out Mandhry Mosque
• Take Photos With The Mombasa Tusks

Places to stay in Mombasa in December

Restaurants to try out in mombasa, south africa- popular african countries to visit in december.

To begin with, the National Animal of  South Africa is called the Springbok . South Africa has 11 official languages, IsiZulu , Afrikaans , Isihosa , SiSwati , Sesotho , Xotsonga , Sepedi , Isindebele , Setswana , Tshivenda and English. Also, about 80% of South Africa’s Population is Christian while 20% make up for other religions.

Just as the name suggests, South Africa is a country located in the southern part of Africa. As of 2021, South Africa ranked as the second richest country in Africa, after Nigeria. Subsequently, tourism remains a key driver in the South African economy and also contributes to Job creation in the country. Moreover, the tourism industry in South Africa thrives as a result of its culture, geography and Wildlife. South Africa is probably the only country that has 3 capital cities- Pretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein.

Continually voted as one of the world’s top cities to visit,  Cape Town  remains one of the best places to visit in Africa in December. With picturesque mountains, bottle-green wine valleys and gorgeous beaches all within easy reach, the ‘Mother City’ is one of  South Africa ’s best-loved travel destinations and at her prettiest in December.

The weather is hot and Martini-dry, the beaches buzzing and the mood infectiously cheerful – perfect for Christmas in Africa. We recommend hiring a private villa to have a prime position at the best beaches, exclusive use of swimming pools and parking, plus housekeeping and 24-7 security.

Fun things in Cape Town when visiting in December

Cape Town is a cool place where you can do a lot of awesome things. First, you can climb really big mountains, like Table Mountain, and see the whole city from way up high. It’s like an exciting adventure! And after that, you can head to the beaches with soft sand and blue water. You can swim, play in the waves, and watch the sun go down in the evening, which is really pretty. So, here are a few things you can do in Cape Town.

• Climb Table Mountain
• Catch the ferry to Robben Island
• Sunbath on Clifton Beach
• Go mountain biking in Elgin
• Visit the boulders beach penguins
• Surf at Muizenberg

Hotel/Places to stay in Cape Town- Top African countries to visit in December

Restaurants to try out in cape town, johannesburg.

Welcome to Johannesburg, a city of wonders! Just like opening a treasure chest, this city is bursting with exciting secrets. From soaring skyscrapers to colourful markets, Johannesburg is a world of adventure waiting to be explored. So, grab your imagination and let’s dive into the magic of this amazing place. Get ready for a journey filled with surprises!

Fun Things to Do in Johannesburg during Your Vacation in December

Johannesburg is a super fun place because it’s like a giant playground just waiting for you! Imagine towering buildings to check out, plus parks with swings and slides that are a blast. And don’t forget about the markets packed with delicious treats! What’s more, the city has cool roads and colourful lights that make it extra exciting for cars. So, if you’re up for an adventure, here are some things to do in Johannesburg.

• Visit the Apartheid Museum
• Explore The Gold Reef City
• Take A Day Trip To Lion & Safari Park
• See Pilanesberg National Park
• Plan a Day Trip To Pretoria
• Explore the South African National Museum of Military History

Fun Places to stay In Johannesburg- Best African countries to visit in December

Places to eat in johannesburg – popular african countries to visit in december, tanzania – best african countries to visit in december.

Let’s set off to Tanzania, a land of amazing wonders! Like turning the pages of a magical book, Tanzania is a country in East Africa that’s part of the Great Lakes region. It’s home to some of the most famous places in Africa, like Lake Victoria and Kilimanjaro, which is the highest mountain in Africa.

Tanzania is filled with exciting stories. From the towering Mount Kilimanjaro to the wild safaris in national parks, there’s an adventure around every corner. So grab your explorer’s hat, and let’s uncover the mysteries of this incredible country. Get ready for a journey full of surprises!”

On the other hand, December is a great time to visit Tanzania because it is mostly sunny and the rains have left which would give you a nice opportunity to see the lakes without worrying about Tides. And then it offers a stunning diversity of landscapes and wildlife.

I know you have seen so many beautiful pictures and videos about Zanzibar and you’re so excited to finally cross it off your bucket list. The First thing to know about Zanzibar is that it is one of the biggest surprises in Tanzania, It is very easy to forget that it is a city in Tanzania, and most time I’m very sure I also forget.

Indeed Zanzibar is a breathtaking destination and there are so many things to see and do ranging from its iconic wildlife safaris to its beautiful landscapes and its vibrant culture. Let’s explore some of the fun things to do.

Want to know more about going on a vacation in Zanzibar? Check out Vacation in Tanzania

Fun things to do in Zanzibar in December

Zanzibar in December is awesome. You can play on the warm beaches first. After that, go see the colourful fish by snorkelling in the clear water. Walk in the old town’s narrow streets to find cool things. And of course, try yummy local food for a tasty adventure. Some of the fun things to do include:

• Visit Jozani Forest
• Go to the House of Wonders (Bait Al Ajaib)
• Visit the Paje Beach
• Dine at Forodhani Gardens
• Go on a cruise at the Safari Blue
• Visit Prison Island

Top Places/hotels to stay in Zanzibar

Restaurants to try out in zanzibar.

Arusha is a bustling African city that often serves as the starting point for safaris to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks. It is locally known as ‘A-Town’, has a lot of charm of its own and is a great place to experience Tanzanian life.

However many people just stay a night or two here before moving on, but if you have time, I’d suggest staying at least a few days. So if you are looking for reasons why Tanzania should be on the list of top African Countries to visit, Arusha is one.

Fun Things to do in Arusha

In December, Arusha is full of exciting stuff to do. First, check out the colorful markets with cool crafts. Then, go on a super fun safari in the parks to see amazing animals. You can also visit a Maasai village to learn cool things and don’t forget to splash around in beautiful waterfalls to end your day with a big smile. That being said let’s explore the list of things you can do in Arusha.

• Climb Mount Meru
• Explore Arusha National Park
• See the Cultural Heritage Center
• Book a Northern Circuit Safari
• Go Canoeing on Lake Momella
• Take a Nature Walk at Lake Duluti

Hotels to try out in Arusha – Popular African countries to visit in December

Restaurants to try out in arusha – best african countries to visit in december, egypt – top african countries to visit in december.

Egypt is a country located on the northeast side of Africa and the capital is Cairo. It’s one of the oldest and largest civilizations in the world. It is a country that stands out from the rest of Africa when it comes to tourism. Even though there are not of wildlife parks or forests like the other parts of Africa, it is still one of the best African countries to visit.

Equally important the best time to visit is between November and February because of the warm weather, and then it is a great time and place to escape from chills in winter

Indeed Egyptians are known for their warmth and hospitality. Egyptians are very friendly towards tourists in fact be rest assured that you will feel most definitely at home in Egypt. People still love to visit the pyramids and also experience the magic of a Nile cruise, you can experience the beauty of Egypt from a whole new angle.

Cairo is the capital of Egypt. It is located on the Nile River, right where the desert transitions into the Nile Delta. In addition, Cairo is known as the “City of a Thousand Minarets” because it has a lot of Islamic-style architecture. Most of the people living there are Muslim, but there’s also a small Christian population. So, if you are looking for African countries to visit in a bid to learn more about Islam, this should be your choice.

Fun Things to Do In Cairo- Best African Countries to Visit in December

Get ready to have a blast in Cairo, where the ancient meets the awesome! You can explore the mysterious Pyramids, like stepping into a time machine. Then, cruise along the Nile River, spotting cool sights from the water. Don’t miss the bustling markets called bazaars, where you can find treasures and treats. With vibrant streets and tasty food, Cairo is a non-stop adventure for all explorers! Let’s dive into some of the places to have fun in Cairo.

• See The pyramids of Giza
• See One of the World’s Great Collections in the Egyptian Museum
• Cruise on the Nile River
• Visit the Admire Al-Azhar Mosque
• Spend Time Exploring Saqqara & Dahshur
• Shop amid the Maze of Khan el-Khalili

Places to stay in Cairo

Restaurants to try out in cairo.

First Aswan is a relaxed and friendly town which is also in Egypt close to the Nile River. Aswan is the best place to visit and is the best city for exploring the temples, monuments, and other tourist attractions in the southern reaches of Upper Egypt. If you are looking for something outside the very normal Cities people visit In Egypt then Aswan is the best for you.

Top things to do in Aswan

December in Aswan is a real treat for everyone who loves to travel. You can explore ancient temples, feeling like a time traveller. Plus, you can hop on a boat for a Nile River ride and enjoy the beautiful views. The weather is just right for discovering colourful markets and finding unique souvenirs because what is Christmas without shopping? Fun things to do in Aswan include:

• Explore Elephantine Island
• Take a boat to Philae Temple
• Plan a day trip to Abu Simbel Temples
• Sail on a Felucca
• Visit the Monastery of St. Simeon
• Climb up to the Tombs of the Nobles

Places to stay In Aswan- Best African countries to visit in December

Top restaurants to visit in aswan- top african countries to visit in winter, morocco – popular african countries to visit in december.

You cannot ignore Morocco when looking for African countries to visit whether it is in December or August. The Kingdom of Morocco is a North African Country. Sharing borders with the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria and the disputed territory of Western Sahara.

In addition, Morocco is an ethnically diverse country that has a rich culture and is civilised. Without a doubt, Morocco has some of the finest open-air markets in all of North Africa Now, let’s dive into some of the fun cities in Morocco.

Read More : Vacation in Morocco – The Best Cities to Have it

Marrakech is special because of the colourful mix of Arab and Berber cultures. Furthermore, Marrakech is more than just an ancient city in  Morocco . It’s a sensory experience of vibrant colours, flavours, smells, sounds, and unique sights. 

Fun things to do in Marrakech

December in Marrakech is a magical adventure for all. You can Roam through lively markets, called souks, and find treasures like a true explorer. You can visit historic palaces, feeling like a time-travelling hero. Plus, the pleasant weather makes it perfect for exploring and discovering the city’s colourful charm. Here is a list of some fun things to do during your stay in Marrakech.

• Go shopping in the souk of Marrakech
• Visit the Spice Market in Marrakech
• Visit the Koutoubia Mosque and gardens
• Go to Le Jardin Secret
• Visit the Dar El Bacha Museum
• Visit El Badi Palace

Places to stay in Marrakech

Restaurants to try out in marrakech.

Fes was once the capital of Morocco and is still seen as the cultural centre of the country. Also, the city of Fes is one of the last remaining medieval cities in the world. Indeed there is an impressive history that dates back over a thousand years but nevertheless, the city is filled with bustling souks, crowded cafes, captivating Marinid architecture, extraordinary mosques, and authentic madrasas (Islamic schools).

The Best Things To Do In Fes, Morocco

In December, Fes offers a bundle of exciting activities for people who love to experience culture differently. Firstly, explore the vibrant medina, where you can wander through narrow alleys filled with colourful shops. Afterwards, hop on a traditional horse-drawn carriage, known as a “caleche,” to feel like you’re on a magical adventure. Don’t miss the chance to visit fascinating historical sites like the Bou Inania Madrasa, transporting you back in time. Lastly, savour Moroccan treats at local markets, giving your taste buds a delightful journey. Here is a short list of some of the things you can do in Aswan.

• Take a Walking Tour of the Old Medina
• See the Al-Attarine Madrasa
• Visit Nejjarine Museum
• Get Lost amid the Alleys of Fes el Bali
• Explore the Mellah District
• Admire the Medersa Bou Inania

Places to stay in Fes

Restaurants to try out in fes.

As December ushers in a time of joy and reflection, seize the opportunity to embrace the warmth, beauty, and cultural richness that Africa has to offer. There are still so many fun things to do, places and cities to see when thinking of African countries to visit in December like exploring the Savannahs of Masai Mara and Serengeti.

You can also enjoy breathtaking views over Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania or spot wild animals on an unforgettable journey through Ngorongoro Crater. For a cultural experience, head toward Morocco’s cities, such as Fez and Marrakech. Or Egypt’s pyramids, which bestow a feeling of disbelief and awe or explore the vibrant markets of Zanzibar

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10 Best Countries to Visit in Africa

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on April 28, 2024

Home to much more than just safaris, beaches, and the pyramids, Africa is both the second-largest and second most-populous continent on Earth. Its 54 mainland countries and island nations all boast their own unique history, heritage, and culture, and this is, in part, what makes traveling around Africa so fascinating.

While beautiful beaches and rugged cliffs line its long coastline, its vast interior encompasses everything from mountains and deserts to tropical rainforests and the Nile river. Scattered around these diverse landscapes, you’ll find astonishing historical sites, secluded villages, and huge metropolises.

Home to a vast array of different cultures and languages, Africa offers an intoxicating mix of old and new, as many of its age-old traditions and customs still survive to this day. Renowned for its amazing wildlife, Africa’s outstanding natural beauty makes it a delight to explore, and its riveting historical and cultural sights mean there is something for everyone to enjoy.

10. Namibia

Nestled away in the southwest of the continent, Namibia is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Africa. This is because much of it is made up of arid, desolate landscapes and the unforgiving Namib Desert. Formerly a German colony, it only gained its independence from South Africa in 1990, so some colonial-era architecture can still be seen in its capital, Windhoek.

Most people, however, visit for its brilliant national parks, which are home to breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and incredible wildlife. In Etosha National Park, for instance, you can catch glimpses of lions, elephants, and black rhinos roaming around the Kalahari. Another popular destination among tourists is the Skeleton Coast, which has lots of spooky but strangely scenic shipwrecks dotted along its dangerous Atlantic Ocean coastline.

Although it is often overlooked in favor of Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa, Namibia and its incredible national parks are hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.

Long a popular tourist destination, Tunisia can be found wedged in between Algeria and Libya on North Africa’s Mediterranean coastline. Due to its fabulous warm weather, inviting beaches, and well-developed tourism industry, lots of Europeans come here to lounge on its golden sands and swim in the sea.

There is much more to Tunisia than just sun, sea, and sand: the country is also littered with impressive archaeological sites that date back millennia. This is because, throughout its history, it has been ruled by everyone from the Carthaginians, Romans, and Ottomans to the Arabs and later on French. Of its many historical sights, the stunning Roman amphitheater in El Jem and the remnants and ruins of Carthage are the undoubted highlights.

In addition to this, it also has the Atlas Mountains for you to explore, as well as the lively coastal cities of Sfax, Sousse, and Tunis – its vibrant capital. If all this wasn’t enough, the endless sands of the Sahara beckon you on with their alluring dunes, troglodyte dwellings, and secluded desert oases.

Home to not only the continent’s tallest mountain range and the source of the Nile, land-locked Uganda also borders the largest lake in Africa. While its tourism industry and infrastructure are quite undeveloped in comparison with neighboring Kenya and Tanzania, this makes its spectacular landscapes all the more exciting to explore.

Long overlooked by visitors to the continent due to its tumultuous and tragic past, Uganda is slowly regaining its title of the ‘Pearl of Africa.’ This is in large part because it is one of only three countries in the world where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild. Seeing the majestic creatures up close in the cloud rainforests of the Rwenzori Mountains is an amazing experience, and is simply a must when in Uganda.

Besides trekking through the dense undergrowth, you can also go white-water rafting down the Nile or go on safari to spot the Big Five. With so much stunning scenery on show and so much wildlife for you to spot, it is well worth heading to Uganda now before it becomes even more popular.

7. Mauritius

While Mauritius certainly takes some getting used to, visitors invariably come away astounded at the incredible beaches, mountains, and waterfalls on show. Located over 1,000 kilometers to the east of Madagascar, its remote setting means it is home to some of the rarest plants and animals in the world.

As such, trekking through its mountainous interior really is a treat as flocks of brightly colored birds swirl above the tropical rainforest canopy. Tucked away among the dense foliage, you’ll come across steep ravines, plunging gorges, and sparkling waterfalls. All in all, the volcanic landscapes certainly make for some of the most picture-perfect scenes imaginable.

Lying alongside the inviting waters of the Indian Ocean are idyllic white sand beaches for you to lounge on, and lots of fantastic scuba diving and snorkeling can be had offshore. Due to the diverse make-up of its population and unique cultural heritage, Mauritius is also renowned for its delicious and varied cuisine. You can try some of its brilliant French, Chinese, or East African inspired dishes in any one of the sleepy, laidback fishing villages that dot its shores.

6. Tanzania

With so much to see and do in Tanzania, it can be hard to know where to start. The north of the country alone is home to the marvelous Ngorongoro Crater and the world-famous Serengeti, both of which are must-visits if you want to go on safari and see the Big Five. Here too, you will also find the snow-topped Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest peak.

Indeed, this wonderful part of East Africa is blessed with a myriad of different landscapes, each more arresting than the last. Its Indian Ocean coastline, for instance, is lined by magnificent beaches and the nation’s largest and most vibrant city, Dar Es Salaam. Just offshore, you can also find the awe-inspiring Zanzibar archipelago, which boasts many glorious beaches and is a popular tourist destination in its own right.

One of the most linguistically and culturally diverse countries in Africa, Tanzania is also home to some very important and impressive archaeological sites that date back millennia. With three of Africa’s Great Lakes found partly within its confines, Tanzania certainly has something for everyone, whether you’re into history and nature or culture and wildlife.

5. Seychelles

Lying some 1,500 kilometers to the east of mainland Africa, Seychelles is the continent’s smallest and least populous country. Made up of 115 islands, with the vast majority of them being uninhabited, the archipelago is incredibly beautiful and is surrounded by the glittering waters of the Indian Ocean.

While the paradise islands are lined with gorgeous beaches, their interiors are quite mountainous and coated in lush rainforest. Due to their remote location, they are home to all kinds of unique fauna and flora, and most of them are now designated nature reserves. Offshore, the colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life makes Seychelles an unforgettable place to go scuba diving or snorkeling.

On Mahe, the largest of the islands, you can find lots of luxury resorts, bars, and restaurants, as well as the nation’s capital, Victoria. From here, you can easily take a boat trip to some of the more secluded islands and beaches that lie nearby.

A magical place to visit, Morocco is home to a mesmerizing array of beautiful old cities, medinas, and souks. These lie along the country’s scenic Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines or tucked away amongst the Saharan dunes and High Atlas mountains.

The continent’s north-westernmost country has long attracted different peoples and cultures to its shores, and its rich heritage now draws on African, Arabic, Berber, and Western influences. This amazing diversity is on show wherever you go, with Essaouira, Fez, and Marrakech being some of its most popular tourist destinations.

Besides exploring the lively Djemaa El Fna and gorgeous mountain city of Chefchaouen, visitors can lounge on one of the country’s lovely beaches or head off into the Sahara. With so many different sides to it, Morocco is definitely one of the most spectacular countries to visit in Africa.

3. South Africa

Occupying the southernmost tip of the continent, South Africa boasts some of the best and most well-run national parks and game reserves in Africa. Of these, Kruger is undoubtedly the most well known and most visited, with Addo Elephant National Park also being a popular draw.

Known as the ‘Rainbow Nation’ due to its multicultural population, South Africa’s cities are fascinating to visit, as each of them has its own particular look, feel, and identity. While Johannesburg teems with life, Cape Town is more laidback in nature and is overlooked by the spectacular Table Mountain, with the wonderful wineries of Stellenbosch lying nearby.

Home to not only the towering Drakensburg Mountains but the arid Kalahari Desert and lush Garden Route, South Africa truly is a delight to explore. To top it all off, both its Atlantic and Indian Ocean coastline are riddled with stupendous scenery and fabulous beaches. Many adventure seekers go diving with great white sharks offshore.

One of the best places in the world to see wildlife up close and personal, for many people, Kenya is the home of safari. Its endless savannah and arid deserts teem with life as lions, elephants, and buffalo roam alongside herds of antelope, flocks of flamingos, and the occasional black rhino.

Its dramatic landscapes are also home to some of the continent’s most famous peoples and cultures, such as the Maasai, Kikuyu, and Swahili, who each have their own rich languages and traditions. In stark contrast to their age-old ways of life, Kenya is also where you can find one of the continent’s most happening cities – its thriving and teeming capital, Nairobi.

Alongside its open plains are freshwater lakes and forests, and the Great Rift Valley cuts through from north to south. Coupled with the beautiful Indian Ocean coastline, this all makes Kenya one of the best countries to visit – not just in East Africa, but the continent as a whole.

Renowned for its ancient monuments and archaeological sites that include the Giza Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings, Egypt is unlike any other country on Earth. Once home to one of the world’s greatest civilizations and cultures, history is on show wherever you go, with tombs and temples lying alongside statues and obelisks, all intricately carved.

Located in the northeast corner of the continent, Egypt is bordered by the Mediterranean and Red seas, with the Sahara Desert to the south and west of it. Running through Egypt is the Nile river, which is the life source of the country.

While many people come to see its historical monuments or explore all that Cairo has to offer, just as many come for its fantastic Red Sea beaches. With so much history and culture for you to delve into, and so much stunning desert and coastal scenery on show, Egypt really does have something for everyone to enjoy.

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Top 5 places in Africa to visit in December

If winter in the Northern Hemisphere isn’t quite your cup of tea, then you must be wondering where to go in Africa in December. Africa in December is beautiful as summer is in full swing, the dreamy weather corresponds with the festive season and many places are at their blissful best.

As the Northern Hemisphere sinks into the cold days of winter, the Mother Continent stretches its arms out wide to welcome you. The Great wildlife migration is taking place now in Africa’s plains and migrant birds are also arriving to fill the air. Beach holidays are also fantastic during this period. If you’re wondering where to go in Africa in December, here are our best picks.

Also read:  Invest Africa to host Google and Cassava Technologies at Africa Tech Festival

Where to go in africa in december.

With 54 countries making up the second-largest continent in Africa, picking the best destination to visit during winter in Europe is challenging at times. However, the following five places are the perfect African destinations to visit during winter.

1. South Africa

With some of the finest game drives and the opportunity to combine bush and beach holidays, South Africa tops our list of African countries to visit during winter in Europe. Here, the weather is beautifully warm and the chances of rain are very low, making it a perfect destination to escape the Northern Hemisphere’s cold.

Cape Town remains one of the best places to visit in South Africa in December. The Mother City offers picturesque mountains, gorgeous beaches and bottle-green wine valleys all within easy reach. Other places to visit in South Africa during winter include Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) and the Garden Route, which is arguably the most beautiful stretch of coastline in Africa.

Also read:  Top 5 night clubs in Cape Town to escape winter in Europe

2. botswana.

Botswana is one of the names that pops up when talking about where to go in Africa in December. Early December time sees the rains arrive in the Makgadikgadi Pan area and the dry pan is transformed into a teeming mass of wildlife.

The outlying fringes of the pan then become lush with green grass hence enticing large herds of wildebeest, antelopes and zebras. There is also a large number of predators such as lions, leopards, wild dogs, hyenas and cheetahs who prey on the herbivores.

Incredible natural beauty and unforgettable cultural encounters make Kenya an ideal destination if you’re wondering where to go in Africa in December. The East African country is a popular tourist destination that will impress you with its wilderness and charm.

Also read:  Korea smart tech firms seek entry in Kenya market

From amazing river valleys to magnificent mountains and exotic beaches to diverse wildlife, Kenya in December turns into a fantasy place. Combining your time watching wildlife in the plains and visiting Kenya’s pristine beaches is the perfect way to spend your December holiday.

4. Tanzania

If you love the thrill of adventure, escape the winter period in Europe by taking a trip to Tanzania. December is Tanzania’s end of the dry season and the lack of precipitation makes for perfect safari conditions as the animals congregate around water sources.

From the famous Serengeti to Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania is home to some of the world’s most iconic national parks. Spend a few days exploring Zanzibar islands before booking your flight back to Europe.

Namibia is a classic, year-round destination with less extreme weather patterns. In December, the northern part of the country should be your area of choice. Head straight up to Serra Cafema and boat along the Kunene River to get a surreal experience in the heart of the dry, wind-blown landscape.

Take time to explore the desert-adapted elephants in the hills around Hoanib Valley Camp before ending your trip with the ultimate flying safari along the beautiful Skeleton Coast. No list of where to go in Africa in December would be complete without Namibia.

Also read:  Hyphen Hydrogen and DBSA announce funding for Namibian project

Is december a good time to go to africa.

The weather in Africa in December is mostly hot and sunny while the occasional cooling rains in the interior make things green. This is the time when great wildlife migrations are taking place as fresh grasses begin to cover the continent’s rolling plains from the Serengeti to the Kalahari Desert.

Where to Safari in Africa in December?

Which country is the best place to visit in africa.

Tanzania is our top pick for the best country to visit in Africa, especially for combined wildlife safaris and beach holidays.

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Best Time To Visit Africa

A handy weather guide to Africa

The  best time to visit Africa  depends on the countries you want to visit, the time of the year, and if you are keen on going on one of the  big five Africa safaris . Here is an overview of  Africa destinations  to help you plan the perfect  African tours .

The Great Migration

Botswana offers the best game viewing experiences during the dry months of June to October. In October, while temperatures can rise up to 40 ° C during the day, they can drop below 10 ° C at night. The months of April and May are also suitable for a  Botswana  safari, although you have experience the occasional bout of rain as well.

• Best time to visit:  June to October
• Watch out:  Nights can be cold and chilly during the peak season, especially in the drier areas

The best time to travel to Kenya is between mid-December to mid-March and from June to October. The country experiences heavy rainfall between April and June, and shorter spells of rain in November and December. However, with various parts of  Kenya  being accessible at different months, you can actually travel in Kenya throughout the year.

• Best time to visit:  July to October
• Watch out:  Expect chilly weather conditions in higher altitudes

Seasons in  Lesotho  are diametrically opposite to ours. While in winter, temperatures can dip to -15°C, summer days are uniformly pleasant at 30 ° C. Lesotho also experiences the occasional thunderstorm during the summer months. Spring and autumn are the best time to travel to Lesotho, with April and May being the ideal months.

• Best time to visit:  May to October
• Watch out:  Great game-watching opportunities, but nights can be as cold as -12°C

In  Malawi , the weather is distinctly different between summer, winter and the rainy season. While May to July are the cooler months, Malawi experiences warm weather between August and September. Road conditions are poor during the rainy months from the end of September until April, making it difficult to travel in Malawi. With the weather being generally quite warm throughout the year, we recommend travel to Malawi between the months of May to August or September.

• Best time to visit:  June to August
• Watch out:  Days are warm and cloudless but nights can be cold

Mauritius experiences warm and sunny weather with few variations between seasons. Beach holidays in  Mauritius  are possible at any time of the year, although there are possibilities of heavy storms in January and February. As the country is located in the southern hemisphere, expect dry weather with low humidity between the months of May to November.

• Best time to visit:  September to January
• Watch out:  The summer months typically get heavy rainfall with occasional thunderstorms

Moroccan weather can be unpredictable from October through February and can vary from one year to the next; some winters are moderate and others are wet and cold. Generally, the months April, May, October and early November are the best time to visit  Morocco  for a more comfortable, temperate climate.

• Best time to visit:  September and October
• Watch out:  October is a busy month for tourism so please confirm your travel plans much in advance

In  Mozambique  too, the dry and wet seasons are distinctly different from one another. The dry weather lasts from April to September and is generally the best time to travel to Mozambique. As you travel inland, or to the south, the weather can be quite hot and humid during the rainy season.

• Watch out:  Due to strong winds in August, visibility can be poor in some areas

The sun shines down on  Namibia  throughout the year! Set in the southern hemisphere, Namibia can be quite cold in the dry winter months, with temperatures often dipping below the freezing point. The time between June to October is best for Namibia safaris.

• Best time to visit:  April to June
• Watch out:  By the end of June, temperatures as well as the amount of greenery begin to decrease steadily

Rwanda and Uganda

It is best to travel to  Rwanda  and  Uganda  during the long dry season between May to October or in the short dry season between December to March. Traveling in the rainy season is also possible as rainfall generally occurs in short, violent bursts. If you are interested in gorilla trekking, do keep in mind that  Volcanoes National Park  experiences plenty of rainfall throughout the year.

• Watch out:  This being the dry season, food is harder to find in Nyungwe, so chimp families often retreat further into the forest.

The climate of Seychelles is determined by the winds that blow through the country! The North-West trade winds bring warm and humid weather between the months of October to March, while in January and February, the country receives a lot of rainfall.  Seychelles  experiences cool and dry weather between May to October, making these the best months for travel.

• Watch out:  These are the busiest months for tourism in Seychelles

South Africa

The climate varies significantly between regions, so the best time to travel in South Africa depends on what you wish to do. As the country is in the southern hemisphere, seasons in South Africa are opposite to ours. While Springtime, between August and October, is the ideal time for safaris, you can actually travel to South Africa all around the year. During the school holidays, between mid-December to mid-January, as well as in Easter, a large amount of local tourists flock to popular destinations. Thus, it is best to avoid traveling in popular  South African destinations  at this time.

• Best time to visit:  May to October in the north and eastern parts; October to November and February to March in the Southern Cape region
• Watch out:  Between May to August in the north and eastern parts, expect cool and dry weather with temperatures dipping below -12°C at night.

Tanzania  is great for year round travel, so before you plan your trip, consider which activities and experiences are important to you. April and May are the least suitable months for travel to Tanzania as it rains heavily during this time.

• Watch out:  It can get quite cold in the higher altitudes

The  best time to travel to Zambia  is during the cool and dry months of May to August. The temperature is pleasantly mild at this time and it is also a great time for game viewing. In the hot and dry season, temperatures can rise up to 40 ° C, although this is also a great time for a safari in Zambia. While it is difficult to reach remote areas during the rainy season, this is also the best time for bird watching.

• Watch out:  While the days are warm and cloudless, nights can be chilly!

The best time to visit Zimbabwe is between the cool, dry months of May and August. While the temperature is generally around 20 ° C during the daytime, nights are usually cooler. In the higher regions of  Zimbabwe , temperatures can drop below freezing point. These months are also considered the best for  safaris in Zimbabwe .

• Watch out:  Pack warm winter clothes for morning game drives since temperatures can dip as low as 6°C

Best time to see the Victoria Falls

With the summer rains just ended, the Victoria Falls are at their impressive best during the months of March and April. Expect to be thoroughly drenched by the spray from this show-stopper if you are visiting during this time. It’s also the ideal time for a scenic helicopter ride in the Victoria Falls, flying over the gushing cascade of water. The months of July and August are also considered the best time to visit Victoria Falls. Water levels are still impressive during this time and you can also visit the Devil’s Pool at the edge of the cliff and Livingstone Island located mid-river.

The Best Time to travel to Africa

Do you have more questions about the best time to visit Africa?  Africa tours  need to be planned well, especially if you wish to include several countries and experiences, such as safaris and beach holidays, into your itinerary. Let us experts plan the  best African safari tours  and advise you on the best time to visit Africa. Tell us your Africa travel dream and we will design your private and tailor-made Africa tour to match all your interests and preferences.

The Best Time to go to Africa For A Wildlife Safari

Wondering what’s the  best time to visit Africa for a wildlife safari ? It can be overwhelming to decide when to go on a safari vacation in Africa, especially if you plan to visit multiple destinations. Our well-traveled experts can help you with their insights and recommendations, based on your interests. Whether you want to witness the  Great Migration in Africa , trek through the Kalahari Desert or glide along on a canoe in the Okavango Delta, our experts can curate the  best African safari tours  tailored exclusively for you.

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Discover the best of Tanzania on this customizable 17-day journey. Go on thrilling game drives through the Central Serengeti, Arusha, Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks to spot lions, elephants, zebras, wildebeest, baboons and more. The region is also home to 400 species of birds, which makes it an amazing place for birdwatchers as well….

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Winter in South Africa – the superb, secret season!

Winter in South Africa offers unique experiences far from the madding crowds. From African safaris to Cape Town, wine tours in South Africa and adventure, learn why.you should visit in winter.

Your Monthly Guide to the Great Wildebeest Migration in Africa

Bless the rains down in Africa! Pack your bags and get ready for the spectacular wildebeest migration across African parklands of the Serengeti and the Masai Mara with this month on month guide.

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Come away with us to a wild, wild land. Such is the pull of the best African safari parks that we guarantee you’ll be coming back for more. Hauntingly beautiful, Africa’s timeless landscapes have inspired safari dreams for centuries.

Best time for Safaris

Whether it is classic safaris in world-renowned national parks, luxury safaris in remote destinations, drive-through tours in Kruger, or world class game viewing in Zimbabwe with the best guides, African safari tours can be life-changing. Plan the ideal wildlife safari in Africa by combining a visit to several countries and include unique experiences in your itinerary. Discover the best time for safaris in Africa by region.

Things To Do

From rolling savannas to thundering waterfalls and hundreds and thousands of animals roaming freely through vast, timeless landscapes, Africa tours offer fascinating bucket-list experiences. Discover the top ten highlights of Africa, as recommended by our destination experts. From the Great Migration in the Serengeti to a luxury safari on the Okavango Delta, discover bucket-list Africa!

The Enchanting Difference

Authentic & unique.

Our award-winning, licensed local guides provide incredible insights and exclusive experiences for you.

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Our experts completely customize your private tour to match your interests and preferences.

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You’ll have a personal and dedicated trip coordinator, backed by 24/7 support in case of emergencies while you’re traveling.

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17 Best Countries to Travel in Africa in 2024 (with map)

There is no other place in the world with more to offer the traveller than Africa! From wildlife safaris and camping under the stars, to exotic cities and fascinating cultures, Africa has it all .

I’ve been travelling for decades, and Africa is the place that keeps drawing me back. I’ll never run out of things to see! I travel here every chance I get, for anywhere from one month to six.

Choosing where to go can be the toughest part of planning your trip, so here’s some help. This article lists the 17 best countries to travel in Africa. Out of its 54 utterly unique nations, these should be first on your bucket list .

These countries are presented in no particular order, except roughly north to south, as they’re all amazing. Put them in order of what looks best to you. See if you can guess my favourites, and find your own.

You’ll also find phrases in red that will lead you to other articles or amazing tours of the country you’re reading about. Click through and find the perfect way to see the places you dream of.

🧳 Book your trip with the companies that I know and trust: ☑︎ Accommodations  –   Booking.com for the best selection​ ​☑︎ Flights  –  I love  WayAway , and you can get 10% off with this link ​ ​ ☑︎ Travel Insurance  –  I use  SafetyWing . Never skip travel insurance! ​ ☑︎ Tours/experiences  –  Viator  is my favourite ​ ​ ☑︎ Car rental  –   Discover Cars searches international & local rental companies to find what you need

The Best Countries to Travel in Africa: North

• Official language : Arabic & Moroccan Berber.
• Why Morocco ? Go for the exotic markets and food, and the inexpensive travel.

Morocco is an exotic mix of mountains, desert and lovely seashore. Its big, sprawling cities are colourful and chaotic and full of the aromas of incense and spices .

Smaller villages boast everything from sea views and Mediterranean-style charm to downhill ski resorts and lonely desert settlements.

Morocco is a personal favourite of mine. Plus, it’s the most visited country in Africa – so you know it must have a lot going for it.

Explore the exotic cities of Fez, Marrakech and Casablanca for their famous markets. One of the best is the night market in Marrakech, in Djemaa el Fnaa Square.

Here you can find an amazing full-day tour of Marrakech and all of its sights. Then if you have another day, you can go back to your favourites knowing you haven’t missed a thing.

In the markets you’ll find performers and craft sellers, spices and soaps, and, of course, food.

From snail soup and goats’ heads to tagines with bread and olive oil, you can be as adventurous as you want. Or not – the chicken and couscous are great too.

And you won’t find better shawarma anywhere. I tried it in Marrakech before it had made its way across the ocean. Now every time I have some, it takes me back to the Medina.

There’s something magical about wandering through the souks of Casablanca in the heat of the day. It’s also a great place to sharpen up your bargaining skills. It’s expected, so don’t hold back!

Plus, if you happen to be in Morocco between December and March, visit Oukaïmeden for a day on the slopes.

A 2-hour drive from Marrakech , Oukaïmeden is located in the High Atlas Mountains. The ski resort offers altitudes of 2,600 – 3,200 metres, with 6 lifts.

✔️ Ouzoud Waterfall Hike & Boat Trip

Take a spectacular hike through the olive groves then board a traditional boat for a close-up look at the falls!

⭐️ Rated 4.6/5 with 4289 reviews – Book Here!

If your time here doesn’t coincide with ski season, hiking is another terrific way to enjoy the area. Go for a few hours or a few days! Or drive on a bit and spend the night in the Agafay Desert .

By rail is a great way to travel between cities in Morocco. With high-speeds, air conditioning, and comfy seats, you can sit back and enjoy watching Morocco go by.

What to wear as a woman in Morocco: remember to dress with respect to the culture. This is a very Muslim country, but liberal. Women can wear shorts, but nothing showing too much skin. No crop tops, for example. Cover shoulders, knees, and chest in more rural towns. Loose, lightweight pants and flowy skirts, and loose weave, long sleeve shirts are perfect. Women on their own are less likely to get harassed if they’re dressed modestly. Men can wear shorts, but will stand out less as a tourist if long trousers are worn.

• Official Language: Arabic. Berber and French are also spoken, as well as some English and Italian.
• Why Tunisia? Go for the historical sites and the outdoor activities!

The beautiful North African nation of Tunisia is a destination that’s often overlooked. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and wonderful people, it’s easy to lose yourself in .

From soaking up the sun on white sandy beaches to exploring ancient ruins. Tunisia offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

One of the best reasons to visit Tunisia is to explore its many historical sites . The country is home to some of the oldest and most interesting ruins in Africa.

These include the area’s Roman ruins such as El Djem’s Colosseum and Carthage’s ancient streets.

The hustle and energy of Tunisia’s medina, with its narrow alleyways and colourful markets is another great experience.

The weather in Tunisia is perfect for outdoor activities . In summer, you can expect warm to hot temperatures, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and exploring the beach.

The winter months are milder and still beautiful. The weather will allow you to take part in some of the country’s outdoor activities. There’s great hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

Tunisia also gives you a unique chance to experience the traditional way of life , in the country’s many rural villages. You can sample locally-produced food and drink, including Tunisian wine and couscous.

You can also take part in traditional activities like camel riding, pottery making, and shopping for local handicrafts.

What to wear in Tunisia : In this conservative shorts and T-shirts should generally be avoided. This is especially true when visiting more traditional and religious sites. For women, it is recommended that they cover their arms and legs with lightweight material such as cotton or linen. Men should also avoid shorts or revealing clothing.

• Official language : Egyptian Arabic. English is widely spoken in the main centres, with some French and Italian, as well.
• Why Egypt ? Go for the Great Pyramids of Giza and other remnants of the oldest civilizations in the world. Also some of the best, and least expensive, diving in the world .

The lure of Egypt goes far beyond the ancient ruins that we all associate with the country. I think it could be the most interesting country in Africa. It’s also one of my own best-loved North African countries .

As well as a fascinating centre of ancient history, Egypt is the Mediterranean. It’s the Middle East. And it’s mysterious. The name conjures up images of sheiks and treasures.

Some of the most famous movies ever filmed were set in Egypt – Casablanca, Death on the Nile, and The Spy Who Loved Me are classics. Not to mention Stargate and The Mummy.

But, the archaeological sites of Egypt are often the primary reason for visiting Egypt. It certainly was for me. The ancient history that’s available for the public to explore is incredibly fascinating.

But even if you aren’t wowed at the prospect of ancient ruins, I’d suggest at least visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza or the Valley of the Kings.

Or make a quick stop at the Egyptian Museum – I could have spent days there.

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Once you’re awestruck by those, you’ll want to see it all.

The Abu Simbel Temple is an amazing enormous sight, as is the Valley of the Kings. Visit by camel, of course. If nothing else, the sheer size of these artifacts will make your head spin.

Also, the Khan al-Khalili bazaar and souk are located in the historic center of Cairo.

Here you can find copper, spices, leather goods, and gold. Also the vibrant energy and combination of aromas that are somehow specifically Egyptian.

It’s easy to spend hours and hours taking it all in.

A lexandria , on the other hand, is a city unlike any other. Its European architecture and 12 miles of Mediterranean coastline set it apart.

Unlike most of the bustling cities in Egypt, Alexandria is a good place for walking . Stroll along the Corniche as the locals do, wander by the sea, and catch a sunset.

While in Alexandria, be sure to visit the Montazah Gardens. Here you’ll find 150 acres of islands, lighthouses, and palaces, in addition to the stunning botanics.

Before leaving Egypt, try to find time for a visit to the Aswan Dam . A  felucca sailboat cruise on the Nile River is fantastic, too!

In addition, Egypt has some of the best scuba diving on the planet. The Red Sea is a world-famous diving destination, and on the Mediterranean side, you can find some sunken ruins to explore.

Egypt is the second most touristed country in Africa, and I can absolutely see why – there’s just so much to see. And so much of it is incredibly fascinating.

What to wear in Egypt: Is Egypt safe for women? Yes, if you dress according to the culture . Shoulders, knees, and chest should be covered. No shorts – loose, lightweight pants and flowy skirts, and loose weave, long sleeve shirts are perfect. Dressing immodestly, by muslim standards not yours , is asking for trouble.

• Official Language: although French is the official language of Senegal, it’s spoken by only 37% of its people. In contrast, 72% of the population speaks the native language of Wolof.
• Why Senegal? This beautiful country is well-known for its warm hospitality, or teranga, toward visitors. It also has outstanding music and markets, as well as surf and wildlife.

The country of Senegal has everything you might be looking for when you travel to Africa. It’s a terrific example of the warm and friendly people of Africa .

It may also be the most beautiful country in West Africa .

The capital city of Dakar is a colourful, bustling seaport town. It’s full of museums, theatres, and shopping. And if you love to experience the local music when you travel, there’s no place better than the nightlife scene of Dakar.

Or if you prefer a quieter scene , you can find that here, too. The smaller area of N’gor is lovely, as is the peaceful little island of Île de N’Gor.

This island that is has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The historical and haunting Île de Gorée was the largest slave trading post on the African coast.

Niokolo-Koba National Park is another UNESCO Site. The 900 km² park is a unique mix of savannah and forest.

Lions, elephants, chimpanzees, leopards, hippos, and derby elands make their homes here. They share the park with some 70 other species of mammals .

And of course, there is Lake Retba, the mystical-looking pink lake north of Dakar. Go for a swim and feel the gravity-defying buoyancy the very high salt content of the water gives you.

Even bird lovers will love Senegal. In the Parc National de la Langue de Barberie alone, there are more than 160 species of birds for your list .

What to wear in Senegal: While this is a very tolerant country when it comes to the religious beliefs of others, it is very conservative . Women should keep shoulders covered, and avoid shorts, short skirts, and cropped tops. Men should also avoid wearing shorts.

5. Cabo Verde

• Official Language : Portuguese. However, English and Kaboverdianu (Cape Verdian Creole) are also widely spoken.
• Why Cabo Verde? Go for the diving and the surf! The rugged landscapes make for some epic adventures, and it’s always beach weather.

The stunning island chain of Cabo Verde is made up of 10 islands, only 9 of which are inhabited. There are also 5 islets in the chain .

If you’re after an amazing hike, set out on the popular climb up the active volcano, Pico do Fogo. If water sports are more your thing, the island of Sal, especially, has you covered there.

From windsurfing to scuba diving, there are water sports galore. For some, these are the only reasons they need to travel to Cabo Verde .

And you don’t have to miss out on marine life if you’d rather stay dry. Both humpback whales and loggerhead turtles are seasonal visitors to Cabo Verde, and can be seen from aboard a boat.

What to wear in Cabo Verde : While the islands are very casual, beachwear is not allowed in hotel restaurants. Do dress modestly by covering knees and shoulders when away from the main tourist spots.

• Official language : though Ghana has over 50 indigenous languages, English is the official language.
• Why Ghana ? Go because it is a tropical paradise! It also has yet to be “discovered”. This makes a visit here more affordable and less touristed than it will be once the floodgates open. Enjoy!

G hana is not a name that’s heard often outside of Africa. This is whether the subject is tourism, politics, or Africa in general .

Though still a hidden gem, it has one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, based on cocoa and gold. It’s also one of the safest countries in Africa in 2022.

Ghana is a successful and independent nation, and its independence is celebrated each July 1 as Republic Day.

Accra is the capital city of Ghana and its largest city. It’s a prosperous trading centre that lies partly on a cliff that’s 8-12 metres high, on the Gulf of Guinea.

There is a lot to see in the capital, from Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park to the James Town Lighthouse.

Plus, the shopping, the history, and the views can keep you busy for days. You can make sure you don’t miss anything with a tour around the city .

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The Ghanaian love for life is everywhere, from its warm, welcoming people to its traditional monthly festivals. If you love to find great festivals when you travel, then you’re in the right place .

Over 70 festivals are celebrated every year in Ghana. Reportedly one of the grandest is Homowo, held between August and September. The word translates to “Hooting at hunger”.

It commemorates the bumper harvest that followed a famine that struck Ghana many years ago.

Others are the Odambea Festival and the Bridal Festival. Plus, there is the boat pageant known as the Edina Bakatue Festival.

Research the dates for the time you’re going to see which festival you’ll be able to catch.

In between the festivities, be sure to go out and enjoy the natural wonders that Ghana has for you. You’ll find amazing spots like the Kakum National Park and the Digya National Park.

In these, you’ll get to see large elephant populations and the endangered Diana monkey . Also stunning birds, flowers, and river creatures such as crocodiles and otters. Hiking and canoeing anyone?

Also, keep in mind Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary and the Hippo Sanctuary at Wechiau. They’re just a couple of examples of village-based conservation operating in Ghana.

Here you can experience the variety of wildlife with the benefit of expert local guides.

One more thing NOT to miss is the turtle viewing at Anyanui, from August to February. Check out the Facebook page for Anyanui Tourism Information Centre for info.

If you’re lucky, you may have the opportunity to see the hatching of leatherback turtles and their journey to the ocean. Your visit supports the work that’s done to protect these turtles.

The people’s warmth and the joy they take in welcoming visitors make it a perfect place to visit. Especially if you like to meet the locals.

Be prepared for people to express protectiveness toward you if you’re a woman travelling on her own. Smile and feel happy that there are such kind people in the world. It’s a great place to travel in Africa.

What to wear in Ghana : really are no clothing restrictions in Ghana, beyond making sure that your midriff is covered. Loose, long sleeves and pants are recommended though, to protect the skin from the sun.

• Official language : there are 9 main languages, with most people speaking Tigrinya.
• Why Eritrea? go for the ruins, the trekking, the beaches, and the surprising Modernist architecture.

Eritrea, located in the horn of Africa, is also home to stunning landscapes and an exciting culture. From deserts to beaches to towering mountains, Eritrea captures hearts with its unique charm .

With so much to explore and experience, there is a wide variety of activities you can enjoy in this pretty little country.

Whether you like strolling through rich historical sites or taking part in outdoor adventures, you’re going to enjoy Eritrea.

Visitors can explore the ancient cities of Axum, Adulis, and Dahlak Island. Take a boat ride along the Red Sea, or trek through one of the incredible mountain ranges . Ocean lovers will love diving off Dahlak Island.

Even bird watchers will love it. The Gash-Barka region , especially, attracts a high density and wide variety of birds.

And once you’ve taken in all of the amazing activities, you can lounge on the pristine beaches of Massawa. Or simply explore the colourful markets of Asmara.

What to wear in Eritrea : Try to keep knees and shoulders covers when you’re not at the beach .

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The Best African Countries to Visit: South

8. Mauritius

• Official Language : No official language, but most people speak Creole.
• Why Mauritius : Its blend of cultures, activities, and natural beauty, along with its rich history, and vibrant experiences that you simply can’t find anywhere else.

In the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar, Mauritius is a gem waiting to be discovered. Currently considered the safest country in Africa , it’s blessed with a unique blend of cultures .

It offers an equally unique experience to visitors. Despite the lack of an official language, English speakers can easily communicate with the friendly locals.

Mauritius is ideal for nature lovers , home to nine bird species found nowhere else in the world. The island’s fascinating history even includes the dodo , an extinct bird and national animal .

Plus, winter horse racing is an age-old favourite event. Thousands of people show up to the Champs de Mars racecourse to cheer on their favourites. Races happen from March to early December each year.

And my favourite, the Mauritius National Botanical Garden is home to a fantastic variety of tropical plants. Many of them are endemic to the island.

And of course, the stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and abundant coral reefs are unbeatable. I wonder if these beaches aren’t somehow responsible for the impressive life expectancy on the island.

As well, there are several festivals that you can enjoy. Which one you get to see depends on when your time on the island falls. November is the time to catch the Festival Reggae Donn SA and the Beach Humour Festival.

What to wear in Mauritius : You’re welcome to relax and wear what you please in Mauritius. As the weather is warm and the water is inviting, be sure to bring a swimsuit and light clothing.

• Official languages : Swahili, though there are 43 languages spoken in Uganda today.
• Why Uganda ? The mountain gorilla is an important reason to visit Uganda. Also, tourism is still relatively a new industry in Uganda, which means a more authentic experience. 

Uganda’s   Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is definitely a spot you’ll want to visit while you’re in Uganda .

It’s one of only 3 places in Africa where the endangered mountain gorilla can be found.

Responsible gorilla trekking is one of the main fund-raising tools for their conservation. Taking part supports these efforts.

But for their protection, always go with a trained guide, and follow all rules. Seeing these guys in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.

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Even apart from the mountain gorillas, Uganda has one of the highest populations of primates in Africa. Kibale National Park is a great place to see chimpanzees, making destination for travellers.

If you want a little more action and adventure, try white water rafting on the Nile River.

Jinja is located on Lake Victoria, at the source of the Nile. It’s a popular starting point for rafting trips . Other, less heart-stopping adventures are offered too, like kayaking, ATV rentals and bodysurfing.

Once you’re done for the day, be sure to relax with a locally-made Nile Beer .

Or visit Rwenzori’s “ Mountains Of The Moon ” National Park for epic hiking trails. It can be cold, though, due to the high altitude, so go prepared.

You’ll actually find glaciers in the Rwenzori, as well as stunning waterfalls and lakes. A guide is required to explore here.

Budongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park is known for its butterflies and birds.

And if you’re looking for lions and elephants, head to Queen Elizabeth National Park in the western part of Uganda.

Once you’ve satisfied your craving for time with the animals, get to know the tribes of Uganda. One of the incredible festivals is a great way to do this.

The Nile Festival is the last weekend of January and features music, dance, folklore and food.

There is also the International Film, Music, and Arts Festival of Bayimba, held at the end of August. It showcases local artists, as well as those from other parts of East Africa.

There’s so much to see and do in Uganda that it’s really impossible to do it all. But it’s fun trying!

What to wear in Uganda: Give a bit of thought to how you dress while in Uganda. For both men and women, shorts should be avoided out of respect for the culture, as well as anything tight or revealing.

• Official languages : Swahili and English
• Why Kenya ? Go for the wildlife safaris, especially during the Great Wildebeest Migration, for coastal beaches, or for Mount Kilimanjaro!

The dramatic wildebeest migration ongoing throughout the year is the perfect excuse to visit Kenya. They move from the southern Serengeti, in Tanzania, northwest to Kenya’s Maasai Mara .

These 2 regions are contiguous, and the animals move with the seasons, following the rains and the new grass. Catching sight of the mass of animals crossing the Mara River is something you’ll never forget.

The best time to see this in Kenya is between late July and early September . Also on the way back south from mid-October to early November.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of the best places in Africa to experience the epic wildlife.

At any time of year, you’ll see what is known as the Big 5 . These are lions, leopards, cape buffalo, rhinos, and elephants.

On top of these are an incredible number of other animals , from hippos and antelope to tortoises and crocodiles.

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Spend 3 days and 2 nights on safari in the famous Maasai Mara Game Reserve. See the iconic wildlife of Africa in the wild. Another check on your bucket list!

In addition, learn about the Maasai people . They’re noticeable by the bright red and purple cloths they wrap around themselves. Many still live a pastoral lifestyle in northern Tanzania and southern Kenya.

These nomadic warriors enjoy sharing their music and dance with visitors.

The best way to experience their culture is to visit a Maasai village while you’re on safari. Visiting this fascinating culture on your own will make the rest of your world melt away.

Nairobi, the capital city , is definitely worth a stop. Take a guided walking or driving tour if you have time. Try some local cuisine, maybe nyama choma and ugali.

This is charcoal-roasted meat and maize-meal cake, and the one from Tamambos in the Village Market is delicious.

Try to leave time for the beach before you move on from Kenya. The coast runs along the Indian Ocean, and is a great spot for soaking up some sun.

There are options from luxury to backpacker if you decide to stay awhile.

Don’t forget Diani Beach , south of Mombasa, another popular destination. You can snorkel, dive, or just lounge in the sun.

What to wear in Kenya: avoid wearing anything short, tight, or revealing. Loose, airy trousers and skirts, and longer, flowy shirts are the way to go. Respect the culture – this applies to women and men!

11. Tanzania

• Official Languages: Swahili and English
• Why Tanzania? The Great Wildebeest Migration can also be seen here, in the Serengeti National Park. Then you can spend some time enjoying the sun in Zanzibar, or climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro.

The best times to see the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti are from late June to August. Also from January to mid-March, if you’re hoping to catch that .

T his area is also where you’ll find the Ngorongoro Crater , aka the “Garden of Eden”.

The Crater plays host to a staggering number of wildlife species. On top of that, it’s one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world.

Olduvai Gorge is a part of the Ngorongoro Conservation area. Some of the earliest known evidence of humans was discovered here.

Ruaha National Park and Selous Game Reserve are more remote and less travelled safari destinations. These are located in southern Tanzania.

These are both definitely worth checking out if you’re looking to get off the beaten path a bit. They are a bit pricier than the other spots, though.

There also are several cities to choose from if you’d like to see the more cosmopolitan side of Tanzania.

Arusha is a base for Mount Kilimanjaro expeditions and many safaris. It has everything you might need when stocking up for these adventures.

You’ll also find nightlife, museums and markets ! The warmth and energy of the local people really shine when you get out to meet them here.

D on’t be surprised if they seem a little protective of you here, too, if they find out that you’re travelling solo .

I’ve been asked if Tanzania, especially the bigger cities, is safe for solo female travellers . I can honestly say, I always felt safe. But again, common-sense precautions, like anywhere else.

Mwanza is the second largest city in Tanzania and offers a similar experience to the capital of Dar es Salaam.

L ocated on Lake Victoria, Mwanza’s center has many historical buildings and shops . It’ll give you a good snapshot of city life in Tanzania. But I wouldn’t recommend driving here! It’s chaos.

A short flight or ferry ride – I recommend the flight – away is  Stone Town, the main city on Zanzibar Island.

It is a maze of narrow alleys connecting bazaars, mosques, and shops. More than 99% of people on Zanzibar are Muslim.

This is the perfect place to relax from your travels. Enjoy some cold local beer, and ruminate on how lucky you are to be here.

Zanzibar is well-known for its idyllic beaches. Jambiani Beach , in the south, is where I learned the fine art of lying in the sun. It was a very successful lesson!

Another of Zanzibar’s amazing attractions is its superb diving ! Whale sharks and stingrays – need I say more?

Stone Town is another popular place in Zanzibar. There are many friendly street merchants, local shops, and pretty and unique places to eat or have a cup of amazing African coffee.

What to wear in Tanzania : this is a deeply conservative country – knees and shoulders should be covered. This applies to men, too. Loose pants or skirts, and sleeved shirts in cool fabrics are perfect. T ake note that camouflage and military clothing is NOT permitted.

12. Mozambique

• Official Language : Portuguese. Over 40 other languages are also spoken.
• Why Mozambique? Go for the 2,500 km (1,600 mi) of coastline, the spectacular marine life, and the variety of terrestrial wildlife.

Mozambique is a fascinating and diverse country, located in southeastern Africa. With stunning beaches along the Indian Ocean, lush rainforests, unique wildlife, and vibrant cultures, Mozambique has something for everyone .

One major draw of Mozambique is its incredible beaches . From the islands of Bazaruto and Ibo to the mainland coastal regions, there is a beach for every taste.

Whether you want to relax on a secluded beach or join in some fun water sports such as snorkelling, windsurfing, or sailing, Mozambique has plenty of options that are sure to please.

In fact, Mozambique scuba diving is some of the best in the world. The Bazaruto Archipelago, a national park, protects more than 2000 types of fish.

It’s also home to dugongs , leatherback turtles, and dolphins, just to name a few creatures.

In addition to the beaches, Mozambique also has a variety of outdoor activities. From rock climbing and kayaking in Cahora Bassa National Park to game viewing in Gorongosa National Park, there is something that you’ll love.

Bird watching is especially popular, as it gives you a chance to observe some of the country’s many exotic birds . You can also go on a safari, or take a guided fishing trip to catch some of the local fish species.

The culture in Mozambique is also incredibly diverse and vibrant . There are many different ethnic groups living throughout the country, each with its own unique traditions and customs.

Music and dance are an important part of the culture here, and you can find performances in many different parts of the country. The cuisine is quite varied, as well — from seafood to Portuguese-inspired dishes, there is something for everyone’s taste buds.

What to wear in Mozambique : The culture is not overly concerned with how its visitors dress, but do dress conservatively . Longer shorts and sleeveless tops may be acceptable in the urban centres , but take clothing that will cover knees and shoulders when you venture farther inland.

13. Madagascar

• Official Languages : Malagasy and French
• Why Madagascar ? Go for the lemurs – more than 30 species! The large island is also home to some of the world’s most unique plants and animals. And koba cake. Yum.

M adagascar is the third largest island in the world. It’s a peaceful paradise for hundreds of species of animals, birds and insects .

Five percent of these live nowhere else on Earth.

It is also home to 15,000 species of plants, 80% of which are found nowhere else . Wild orchids anyone? The way to see the amazing wildlife here is in the excellent national parks, on foot and with a guide.

The parks are car-free for the most part. Most have hiking trails for all levels of fitness, from 2 hours to multiple days. Perfect for your adventures in Madagascar .

Isalo National Park is a place of wildly varying terrain, over 300 species of animals, and extraordinary sunsets.

The Andasibe Mantadia Rainforest is the place to go if you’d like to see the Indri lemur .

If your visit to Madagascar is between June and September, you can go whale watching at Antongil Bay. Humpback whales come here every year for mating season.

The bay is also home to mangroves, coral reefs, and marine turtles. As well, many mammal and fish species make for some amazing snorkelling.

What to wear in Madagascar: You don’t need to worry too much about what you wear on the island. Do refrain, though, from wearing anything too revealing or too short.

14. Namibia

• Official language : English
• Why Namibia ? Go for the sandboarding, stargazing, and otherworldly landscapes. There is an endless list of things to do in Namibia.

Namibia is named for the Namib Desert, one of the world’s oldest. Namib means “the vast place”, and there couldn’t be a more appropriate name for this stunning landscape .

Sparsely populated Namibia is a heart-stopping combination of red dunes , bleached-white pans, scrubby savannah, and rocky mountains.

It also may be one of the best places to visit in Africa for first-timers . There’s so much to see, and there are excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

In addition, it’s one of the safest countries in Africa. If you’re new to travelling in Africa, this is a great place to start your adventures.

Namibia is relatively easy to navigate, and you can usually find someone who speaks some English. It’s also quite a tidy nation, and less chaotic than some parts of Africa.

As well, its excellent infrastructure and tamer traffic are much less intimidating to drive in than some other countries in Africa.

A road trip here is like no other road trip you’ve ever taken. Watching the Namibian light and topography change with the miles and the position of the sun is truly mystical.

My month-long road trip through Namibia is one of my very favourite memories.

In southern Namibia, you’ll find Fish River Canyon , the second-largest canyon in the world. This is well-known, serious hiking territory.

But only from May through mid-September, due to the heat and flooding the rest of the year.

Farther north is Swakopmund – a paradise for the adventurer in you.

You can take your pick of skydiving , sandboarding, 4x4ing on the dunes , paragliding, and many other activities. These can be as wild or as mild as you like.

Whatever you choose, follow it up with some traditional German cuisine. The country is a former German colony, and you’ll find their apfelstrudel – apple strudel – stacks up against anybody’s.

Namibia’s German heritage also comes out in the Oktoberfest celebration in the capital city of Windhoek. O’zapft!

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The bleak and stunning shores of the Skeleton Coast run up into Angola. They hold the bones of centuries of ships run aground, some still visible today.

Haunting whale and seal bones are a disturbing reminder of past hunts. The desert-adapted elephants and lions that wander the area are a bit haunting, as well.

The dunes of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei may be the landmarks that many people think of when they hear Namibia mentioned. The orange dunes against the bluest blue sky highlighting the fossilized acacia trees is an iconic image of this area.

Etosha National Park , one of Namibia’s most famous attractions, is where you’ll find the densest population of wildlife in the country.

This national park is one of the best places to visit in Namibia, especially if you’re on your first self-drive safari.

In addition, this is an excellent place to find endangered black rhinos. Also, when the pan is full, pink flamingos number in the thousands.

What to wear in Namibia: Shorts and tank tops are fine to wear in Namibia. But take note that military-type camouflage is NOT allowed.

• Official Language: English, though Bemba and Nyanja are the main languages spoken outside of business.
• Why Zambia? Victoria Falls is one of Zambia’s main attractions. It’s also a beautiful example of unspoiled African wilderness, with impressive wildlife viewing opportunities.

Victoria Falls is a major draw for tourism in Zambia. It receives about one million visitors every year! The world’s largest falls*, the Falls was chosen as a World Heritage Site in 1980 .

The local Zambian name for the falls is Mosi-oa-Tunya , which means the smoke that thunders . Standing in front of the mass of falling water, the reason is obvious.

The mist that rises up from the falls and the booming sound that comes from it will stay with you long after you leave the area.

Another of Zambia’s claims to fame is the bush walk , also known as the walking safari. This method of wildlife viewing was introduced in Zambia in 1950, and is one of the most exciting activities offered in Africa.

Zambia is one of the few countries in Africa that has been able to avoid the war, conflict, and political upheaval that much of Africa has suffered over the years.

It has earned a well-deserved reputation for political stability .

What to wear in Zambia : camouflage and military-style clothing is NOT permitted in Zambia. Shorts and skirts should be long enough to cover the knees, with shoulders covered.

* Based on height and width

16. Botswana

• Official languages : Tswana and English, though there are at least 31 languages recognized here.
• Why Botswana ? Go for the Okavango Delta, and to support the efforts of the Botswana government in the conservation of its country’s wildlife.

Whether you’re looking for city life or wildlife, Botswana’s got it for you! And it’s another of the safest countries to visit in Africa, and an incredibly beautiful country .

After spending an extended trip exploring the country, I developed a soft spot for Botswana. I revisit it whenever I have the chance.

Gaborone is the capital city, and there’s a lot to see in and around it. If you’ve been travelling for a while, you may have things you need to stock up on.

You’ll be able to find whatever you need at one of the modern shopping malls .

If you don’t have the time to travel through the many beautiful parks and reserves of Botswana, you can still see the wildlife from Gaborone.

Thirty minutes outside of town is the Mokolodi Nature Reserve . They offer a variety of activities that give you a chance to get a feel for the variety of wildlife that calls Botswana home.

Hopefully, you will have a bit of time to explore, because Botswana boasts some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa.

A few of the most well-known spots are the Okavango Delta , the Central Kalahari Game Reserve , Savuti National Park and Chobe National Park.

The Okavango Delta is one of Botswana’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s home to some of the most endangered mammals in the world, and is utterly gorgeous.

In addition, all of these spots offer unforgettable safari experiences. You might start with a scenic flight over the Delta. This is a breathtaking way to take in the wonders of this area as a whole.

Botswana is also the home to the Elephant Haven . Only about an hour’s drive from Maun, the starting point for many excursions in this area, this elephant orphanage is well worth the time it takes to get there.

A visit to the Elephant Haven will give you a chance to meet some of their young charges, and support the work they’re doing.

Now if you’ve always wanted to see meerkats in the wild , Botswana has Planet Baobab. This unique lodge is about 2 and a half hours from Maun, on Makgadikgadi Pan in Gweta.

These little guys are great fun to watch, and you might see some elephants and giraffes on your way there. Drive carefully, just in case!

And for a little taste of how the locals eat while you’re in Botswana, stop in at Maun’s Akacia Cafe for a mopane pizza.

Mopane worms are plentiful in some parts of Africa and are eaten in stews and sauces, and as dried, crunchy snacks.

Don’t think about it, just take a bite. Want more restaurants (without mopane) and activities in Maun? Have a look at Things to Do in Maun for the whole scoop.

On top of all that, the Batswana, as the people of Botswana are called, are lovely.

If you’re travelling solo and get tired of your own company, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the person behind you at the food store.

You just might be making a friend.

What to wear in Botswana: There are no strict rules as to what not to wear in Botswana, but do try to dress modestly. Camo or military style-clothing is a bad idea in Botswana.

➤ Read More About Botswana: 33 Fun & Interesting Facts About Botswana

17. South Africa

• Official languages : there are 11 of them. English is the 4th most widely spoken.
• Why South Africa ? Go for the enormous variety of sights and activities, from safari to wine tasting to botanical gardens.

Most people have heard of Cape Town , in southwestern South Africa. Its Table Mountain is a top African tourist spot, and one of the most popular places in the area to visit .

You have your choice of hiking to the top or taking the cable car. The view from the top will make the trip worthwhile!

Cape Town is also home to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront , aka the V & A Waterfront. This is a great area for shopping, having a bite to eat, or finding a seat and people-watching.

A harbour cruise will give you a different perspective of the area. And you’ll get to see the seals curled up wherever they can find some sun.

Nearby is the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens , one of the world’s largest. If you have any gardener in you, or just enjoy flowers, this is a don’t-miss.

If you’re up for a road trip, the world-famous Garden Route is an epic one. You can spend anywhere from 3 days to 14 cruising along this 300 km stretch of coastal road.

It will take you past lagoons and lakes, through forests and over mountains. You’ll find activities such as whale watching, eco-tours and hiking to break up the drive.

And as you can imagine, the views are stunning, from beginning to end.

✔️ Get a free Printable   Travel Bullet-Journal  📚 for your trip Plus more info on exploring Africa !

If the Cape Winelands sound more your style, set out on Route 62. Stretching 850 km, it is considered to be the longest wine route in the world.

I f you don’t have several days to meander along this spectacular highway, try a wine-tasting day trip from Cape Town.

There’s a hop-on hop-off one that’ll let you enjoy without having to drive.

And of course, no trip to South Africa would be complete without some wildlife viewing .

Kruger National Park is the perfect destination if you’d like to take your first self-drive safari. You can fly right into the park and rent a car at the airport.

KNP is equipped with everything you need for a stay as long or short as you’d like. There are food shops and cafes, as well as a variety of accommodations, from campsites to luxury tents.

There is an extraordinary variety of wildlife throughout the park. This includes one of the few remaining populations of African Painted Dogs.

The variety of birdlife numbers around 520 species, and includes rare ones that are seldom seen anywhere else. You’ll want to bring an extra memory card for your camera if you’re a bird lover.

Read 14 Reasons to Visit South Africa if you need more convincing!

What to wear in South Africa : South Africans are generally not concerned with whether or not you show your knees. Camouflage, however, IS illegal , and it’s best leave any military-style clothing at home as well.

➤ Read more about South Africa: 14 Reasons to Visit South Africa

Map of Africa

Frequently Asked Questions :

✓ what is the safest country in africa .

Currently,  Mauritius  is considered the safest country in Africa. It’s been deemed safer than Italy, Spain, and the UK. You can check the  Global Peace Index  to find out where the others lie.

✓ What is the friendliest country in Africa ?

Morocco is thought to be friendliest to its tourists. Find how your  favourite countries rank here .

✓ Which countries in Africa are not safe to visit?

The answer to this question changes according to the current political climate. As of the end of 2022, the country of the Central African Republic has advisories discouraging travel.

This is due to the high incidence of violent crime in the country. Be sure to do some research in this regard when planning your trip.

✓ Which African country has the best weather?

The island nation of Seychelles is the African country with the best weather. You’ll enjoy a short rainy season and warm temperatures all year. Never cold and rarely warmer than 31º in summer, temps hover between 25ºC and 28ºC all year long.

✓ What is the most underrated place to visit in Africa?

Senegal is a small country on the west coast of North Africa. With a culture based on hospitality, it’s also known for its music, markets, surf, and wildlife. A pretty politically stable country, it’s an incredibly underrated destination.

✅ Don’t ever forget travel insurance ! You earned your trip to Africa – don’t let anything as small as an illness or loss of luggage derail it. I always use SafetyWing !

Summing It Up: Best Country to Travel in Africa in 2024

Africa boasts 54 amazing countries waiting to be explored, and these are the 17 absolute best. Each one offers its own unique blend of culture, landscapes, and experiences.

As you plan your trip, consider your interests, budget, and travel goals. Whether you’re drawn to the pyramids of Egypt, the wildlife of Kenya, or the history of Morocco Africa has something to offer you.

Once you’ve explored these 17 countries, start on the remaining 36. If your list turns out differently than mine, let me know!

Don’t keep waiting – pack some bug spray and your common sense in a single carry-on bag and go. You’re going to love it!

Happy Travels!

Read More About Africa: • Dream Destinations in Africa • Iconic Animals of Botswana & Where to See Them • 24 Best Things to Do in Zanzibar (with map) • What to Do in Kenya Beyond Safari • Winter in Africa – 15 Important Facts

Share this article

I had been travelling for years before I first went to Africa. Once I had been on my first safari, I was hooked. Now I go back every chance I get. I've lived in Botswana, explored the wild coast of Namibia, toured Southern Africa and so much more.

There's no place that has more to offer a traveller than this enormous and stunning continent. I write about it here to hopefully inspire you to experience it for yourself, and to make your travels easier. It'll be the trip of your life! Happy travels!

Africa , South Africa , Tips & Inspo · December 2, 2020

16 Absolute Best Countries to Visit in Africa

Looking for the best countries to visit in Africa? These 16 amazing African countries offer everything—from beautiful scenery to diverse cultures to fascinating history and more! Find out where to go and what to do on this ultimate Africa Bucket List!

Africa stretches more than 30 million square kilometers, making it the second-largest continent in the world. It is full of unbelievably beautiful places packed with ancient treasures, vibrant cultures, amazing wildlife, and stunning scenery ranging from vast deserts and luscious forests to rugged mountains, sweeping plains, and pristine beaches.

With 54 unique countries to explore in the “Garden of Eden,” deciding where to go in Africa can be overwhelming. To help you sort through the many options, we’ve hand-picked these  16 Best Countries to Visit in Africa !

Ready to find out which countries should be on your African Bucket List? Read along to discover the best and safest countries to visit in Africa!

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

16 Incredible Countries that belong on your African Bucket List

This guide on the best African countries to visit will take you from the tip of the continent with its vibrant cities and abundant wildlife, through the jungle-filled forests and sprawling grasslands in the east and west, all the way to the ancient cities and vast deserts in the north. Along the way, you’ll also get a glimpse of Africa’s beautiful off-shore islands and even a few less-traveled gems.

Here’s a quick look at the countries included on this list:

Best Countries to Visit in Southern Africa: South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Mozambique

Best Countries to Visit in East Africa: Ethiopia, Kenya, Mauritius, Seychelles, Tanzania, Uganda, Zanzibar (part of Tanzania)

Best Countries to Visit in North Africa: Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia

Best Countries to Visit in West & Central Africa: Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe

Best Countries to Visit in Africa: Southern Region

South africa.

South Africa is a great country to visit in Africa. It has beautiful scenery, amazing wildlife, and many different cultures to explore. Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International is the main gateway, but you can also fly into Cape Town International . 

Despite its often eyebrow-raising political state, South Africa is a diverse country with many things to offer. From its dramatic coastline stretching more than 2,800 km to its lush interior filled with rolling grasslands and plateaus. On top of that, you’ll encounter diverse wildlife, bustling cities, charming little towns, and friendly people.

One of the best things to do in South Africa is to go on a self-drive safari in the Kruger. It is one of the biggest game reserves in the world and has more wildlife species than any other sanctuary in Africa. Once there, you’ll get to enjoy the lions’ roars and spot all kinds of wild animals mere steps from your car! Other incredible experiences include driving the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga , the world’s largest green canyon, and the Garden Route , which offers breathtaking views no matter where you turn. City lovers will find plenty of things to do in Cape Town and the nearby Cape Winelands. 

The best time to visit South Africa is during the warmer months,  November to April . Avoid visiting during the December or Easter holidays when prices are often higher. Here are a few more  things you need to know before visiting South Africa .

Contributed by Ed from SafarisAfricana.

Botswana is a truly special country if you enjoy wildlife and the great outdoors. The country is large, wild, and landlocked, with a landscape defined by the dry Kalahari Desert and the wet Okavango Delta.

The country’s main entry point is its capital, Gabarone, located in the country’s southeast. Gabarone lies on the border with South Africa, a 5-hour drive from Johannesburg.

There is a decent – but very limited – road network where only the major roads are tarmacked, and internal travel tends to be by bus, hire car, or air. International visitors arriving by plane will often stopover in Gabarone and then catch a 1.5 flight north to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta .

Botswana is one of the best African countries to visit because:

• You can explore some of the  world’s best national parks on a self-drive  Botswana safari .
• Botswana is home to huge animal migrations and one of the best places to see Southern Africa’s largest terrestrial animal migration. If you time your trip, you’ll get to see enormous zebra herds travel 1,000 kilometers between the Makgadikgadi plains and the Nxai Pan, searching for food & water.
• The Okavango Delta is a premier safari destination of 15,000 square kilometers of wetland wilderness. It’s dotted with exclusive, out-of-the-way lodges perfect for game drives, safari walks, and boat trips.

The best time to visit Botswana is  from May to August  when the winter days are cool and sunny, and the lack of water drives the wildlife to congregate around permanent water sources.  July and August  are school holiday times, meaning more tourists, busier national parks, and higher accommodation prices.  October to April  is the summer season, which brings severe heat, heavy rains, and at times, flooding.

Recommended by Paula from Paula Pins the Planet.

Namibia is a beautiful country located in Africa’s southern corners. It shares borders with South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Angola, making it easy to access overland. 

Namibia should be on your list of best African countries to visit because:

• The dramatic scenery and the diversity of the landscape is stunning. 
• Namibia is home to rich wildlife.
• You can get a taste of the local African culture.

Hosea Kutako International Airport  in Windhoek’s capital city is the major international airport and the main gateway. To get to the country’s far-flung destinations by air, transfer to the capital’s second airport – Eros. 

However, a  well-planned road trip in Namibia  is the best way to explore the country. Along the way, you will have a chance to discover some of Namibia’s beautiful landscapes, amazing wildlife, and lovely locals. 

Some of Namibia’s highlights are doing a safari at Etosha National Park , exploring the Deadsvlei desert, and climbing some of the world’s highest dunes. Visiting the ghost town Kolmaskop, relaxing by the ocean towns of Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, and driving the stunning Skeleton Coast are other must-dos. 

The best time to visit is during the  dry season (May-Oct) , when the wildlife congregates around rivers and waterholes. During this time, the weather is sunny with virtually no rain. 

Traveling in Namibia is safe, with easily navigable gravel roads, minimal traffic, and an impressively low crime rate. While there are plenty of accommodation options near the main attractions, it’s best to make reservations 6-12 months in advance when visiting during the high season. Also, make sure to book well in advance for the country’s more visited areas during the low season. 

Contributed by Claire from Stoked to Travel.

Zambia  is one of the best places to visit in Africa for adventure and stunning landscapes. The country is most famous for the Victoria Falls, a mammoth set of waterfalls straddling the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. For this reason, most visitors tend to fly into Livingstone Airport in the south. Most of Zambia’s main attractions and points of interest are also located there. 

Victoria Falls are one of the World’s Seven Wonders and is named after Queen Victoria, the former monarch when the falls were first stumbled upon by a European. Interestingly, the falls are neither the tallest nor the widest, but they hold the world’s largest single sheet waterfall record. 

The Zambian side of the falls is located in Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, and it’s easy to join a guided walking tour to the falls. Just a word of warning, a walk through the park will leave you soaked, especially in the rainy season!

Zambia is one of the best African countries to visit because:

• You can bungee jump over the falls or try white water rafting along the Zambezi River.
• If you stay at one of the posh lodges, like Avani Resort , you can see giraffes and zebra wandering around, and even drinking from the pool!
• You’ll get a chance to swim in Devil’s Pool, located atop Victoria Falls. It is the ultimate dare-devil activity! Check out this tour if you’re brave enough.

Due to safety reasons, this pool is only open during the dry season as the rainy season would be far too dangerous. Choosing when to visit is key in Zambia as different times of the year offer different experiences. The rainy season runs  from November to April , and visiting during this time means seeing the falls at the greatest capacity. When visiting during the dry season, large sections of the falls might be completely bare. But, there’ll always be some sections with fast-flowing water. 

If you’re still deciding where to go in Africa, here are 30 epic movies to spark your wanderlust!

Mozambique is another beautiful country in Africa to visit and a hot spot for beachgoers, divers, and adventure seekers. Bordered by the Indian Ocean, Mozambique boasts an incredible 2500km coastline dotted with secluded ivory-white beaches, colorful reefs, and idyllic islands. 

Mozambique is an amazing African destination because:

• Maputo , the capital city, is a haven for foodies, culture seekers, and history buffs. It’s filled with museums, forts, bustling markets, and beautiful old colonial-style buildings.
• Mozambique is home to dozens of beautiful islands, with Bazaruto and Santa Carolina among the best. 
• It’s home to some of the best coral reefs in the world.

Ponto do Oura offers some of the best surfing, fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the country and is home to the Pinnacles, a famous shark diving site. Other incredible beach destinations include Tofu, Vilanculos,   Morrungulo, and Inhambane. 

If you’re visiting South Africa, you can easily squeeze in a trip to Mozambique. The easiest way to access the country is by road from Komatipoort in Mpumalanga or Kosi Bay in KwaZulu-Natal. Mozambique is a great self-driving destination, but it’s wise to have a 4×4 vehicle. It’s also best to travel in a group or with someone knowledgeable about the area. Road conditions, especially in the north, are not the best, and stopping travelers for “traffic violations” is not uncommon. 

If driving is not an option for you, Maputo International Airport is located 3km northwest of the capital city center. Mozambique has a warm and subtropical climate. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to November . 

Best Countries to Visit in Africa: Eastern Regions

Recommended by De Wet & Jin from Museum of Wander.

Located in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia must be one of the most interesting countries worldwide. Ethiopia is the only African country that was never colonized, so if you are looking to experience undiluted African culture, Ethiopia is the place to be.

Bole Airport  in Addis Ababa is the main gateway. And, also the hub of the largest airline in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines. Domestic flights are heavily discounted if your international flight to Ethiopia is on the national carrier.

Ethiopia is also very affordable and can be visited throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for holy cities, ancient churches, colorful tribes, unique wildlife, the best cup of coffee, or world-class hiking, Ethiopia has it all!

Top Reasons to add Ethiopia to your African bucket list:

• Harar  in the eastern lowlands is Africa at its most vibrant. Harar’s walled old town is one of Islam’s holiest places, and you’ll find hundreds of mosques and shrines crammed into the narrow, colorful alleys of the ancient city. 
• Lalibela in the highlands is the center of the country’s Orthodox Christians. The 11 churches, hewn from the rock is also known as Africa’s New Jerusalem. It is one of the most spectacular sites in the world. Attending Sunday morning mass in one of these churches is something that you’ll never forget.  
• Foodies will love Ethiopia. For instance, Injera, a spongy, fermented flatbread served with fiery Berbere curries (or vegetarian sides on fasting days), looks and tastes lip-smackingly good. Here’s a great authentic food and culture tour to add to your list of things to do.

*** Travel note:  There has recently been some unrest in the northern parts of Ethiopia. Make sure to check travel advisories before visiting. 

Recommended by Disha from Disha Discovers. 

Africa is a vast continent brimming with beautiful countries, and Kenya is one of them. It is truly a country that everyone should visit at least once. You’ll find the country’s main entry point through  Jomo Kenyatta International Airport  (NBO) in Nairobi. 

Kenya is one of the best African countries to visit because:

• Kenya’s culture is diverse with several ethnic groups. Each group has its own traditions, including unique dances, food, festivals, and more. 
• If a safari is on your  bucket list , the Maasai Mara National Reserve is the place to do it. Kenya is home to all the Big Five and there are heaps of tours to join.  
• Kenya’s government has made sure that national parks and other facilities are accessible, safe, and well-maintained for tourists.

There are, however, a few key things to keep in mind before visiting Kenya. Depending on where you’re from, you’ll probably need a visa. Make sure you visit a Kenyan government website, so you know exactly what you need. Also, you’ll need to get certain immunizations before visiting Kenya. Some vaccines are required, so make sure you have this sorted.

Further, Kenyan food is delicious, but it may take a bit for your stomach to adjust. Be careful when trying street food, as this isn’t always safe to eat. While Kenya is a safe country for tourists, self-awareness is still required.

Some highlights of Kenya include watching the Great Migration in Maasai Mara, relaxing at Diani Beach, seeing the pink flamingos at Lake Nakuru, spotting birds at Lake Naivasha, having breakfast with the giraffes at Giraffe Manor, and so much more.

Recommended by Emily from Wander-Lush

Mauritius, located off East Africa’s coast in the Indian Ocean, is often thought of as a honeymoon destination. Alongside the jaw-droppingly beautiful beaches and palatial resorts, Mauritius also boasts a lesser-visited jungle interior and incredible cultural diversity in its cities and villages.

Mauritius should be on your African bucket list because:

• Mauritius has 330 kilometers of coastline, most of it pristine white-sand beaches .
• The island is a shield volcano, and the terrain of the inner island is incredibly verdant – perfect for outdoor activities , such as hiking and waterfall trekking .
• The island is incredibly diverse , blending Hindu, Muslim, Chinese, and Creole cultures.

In the capital, Port Louis, there is a range of immersive experiences that shine a light on  Mauritian culture , including lively local markets, street food tours , Sega music, and temples.

The southern part of the island is known for its natural beauty. Here you’ll find the vibrant Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark, Black River Gorges National Park, and the Heritage Nature Reserve in Bel Ombre. Hiking and quad biking are available, but it can be just as rewarding to explore by car. That way, you can stop off at the many scenic viewpoints along the coast.

Mauritius has a subtropical climate with sunny weather and warm temperatures throughout the year. It’s best to avoid visiting during the summer peak season ( October through to January ) when crowds are thickest and prices highest. Mauritius can be a very affordable destination outside of these months, provided you stay in guesthouses and eat at local restaurants. Mauritius has a very low crime rate and is widely considered one of the safest countries to visit in Africa. The main gateway is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport .

Recommended by Jurga from Full Suitcase.

Seychelles is a group of islands off the east coast of Africa. The archipelago is best known as a paradise destination for honeymooners. However, it has so much more to offer than azure-blue waters and white sand beaches. 

Seychelles is a must-visit destination in Africa because:

• There are countless dreamy white-sand beaches.
• It’s home to incredibly diverse flora and fauna.
• A chance to see the stunning landscapes and experience the local culture.

With over 100 islands, each with unique flora and fauna, Seychelles has something to offer for all kinds of travelers. From local markets in its capital city Victoria, hiking in lush jungle forests of Mahé Island , snorkeling and diving with colorful fish and water turtles to exploring the more remote islands where you’ll feel like you’ve entered a real-life Jurrasic Park. Many of these are also home to hundred-year-old, free-roaming giant tortoises! 

Some of Seychelles’ must-see places are the Mahé Island, Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve and Anse Lazio beach on Praslin Island, and Anse Source D’Argent on La Digue Island. But, every island and every beach is unique. As a result, you really have to see several different  Seychelles islands  to appreciate what Seychelles is all about! 

Seychelles is a year-round destination. But it’s best to visit between  late March to May  or from  October to November  for calmer seas and less rain.  June to August  are the driest and coolest months of the year, but also the windiest. Perfect for surfing, but not ideal for swimming or snorkeling.

Victoria-Seychelles Airport  (SEZ), on Mahé Island near the capital city of Victoria, is the main gateway. 

Recommended by Jackie & Justin from Life Of Doing.

Tanzania offers various attractions and activities for all visitors – from incredible wildlife sightseeing to magnificent beaches. But, one if the best things to do while here is going on a safari. Most visitors tend to do a safari in the Northern Circuit as it’s easier to get to from Moshi Airport. It also offers a diversity of animals to see in their natural habitats, such as lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and more. A highlight is admiring the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras at Serengeti National Park.

Tanzania is one of the best countries to visit in Africa because:

• It is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, one of the tallest mountains worldwide, standing 5,895m high.
• You can see wildlife along several safari routes, such as the Northern, Southern, or Western Circuits.  
• The tropical island of Zanzibar is a stone’s throw away.

Adventure seekers will also enjoy trekking here. Mount Kilimanjaro , one of the Seven Summits of the World, is challenging and trekking can take between 5-9 days. Hiking to Materuni Waterfall is a great day hike and is a  top attraction in the Moshi area . 

Another unique opportunity is visiting ethnic groups and learning about their culture. The Maasai group is the most popular due to its proximity to the Northern Circuit safari routes. Visitors can stay overnight at a village or visit for the day to learn about the arts and crafts, dance, and chat with residents.  

If relaxing is the main goal for your vacation, head to Zanzibar. Explore the UNESCO recognized site, Stone Town, or hang out at its white sandy beaches. 

Tanzania is a year-round destination, but experiences vary by season. The dry season is  June to October , and the wet season is  November to April . The main gateway to the country is  Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. 

Recommended by Lara from Both Feet On The Road. 

One of the best countries to visit in Africa is Uganda! The international airport at Entebbe has many direct flights to Dubai, Doha, Amsterdam, and Brussels, making it easily accessible from many parts of the world. Overland, Uganda can be reached from major tourist destinations such as Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania, either by bus or private transportation. 

Uganda should be on your African bucket list because:

• You can encounter endangered mountain gorillas.
• You’ll get to see the impressive Murchison Falls .
• You can spot unique wildlife, such as chimps, tree-climbing lions, the endangered Nubian giraffes, hippos, and many endemic birds.

However, besides these three reasons, there are many more  must-experience in Uganda . For example, the world heritage Rwenzori Mountains National Park with snowcapped peaks that are higher than the Alps. Or the beautiful islands at Lake Bunyonyi and the Toro Crate Lakes near Fort Portal. For adrenaline seekers, white water rafting at the source of the Nile in Jinja is also a must. Foodies definitely have to try the Ugandan Rolex (rolled chapati with omelet) and G-nut sauce (a kind of peanut sauce). 

Tourists are still an attraction in Uganda, so prepare yourself for being stared at, waved to, and touched (by children, not in a weird way). As a woman, prepare yourself for many wedding proposals from Ugandan men (or wear a ring if you want to avoid it). 

Ugandans are extremely friendly and love chatting with visitors, so don’t take offense to the attention you receive. If you are open and approachable, you will have an amazing time and many fun encounters with locals!

Recommended by Karen from Travel Mad Mum .

Zanzibar  is a tropical archipelago in the Indian Ocean, off the East Coast of Africa, and is one of the world’s most desirable destinations! Zanzibar is technically not an independent country but a partly self-governing state in Tanzania. Nonetheless, it still deserves its own spot on this list of best places to visit in Africa!

Abeid Amani Karume International Airport  is the only airport on the island and close to the city center. The airport has direct flights from Europe and the Middle East.

Here are the top reasons to visit the island:

• The island is home to a stunning coral reef and beautiful beaches.
• It is full of history and has a culture of its own.
• There is something for everyone; adventure, nature, history, and relaxation.

Zanzibar has many influences, and as a result, is a melting pot of customs, cultures, and traditions. To experience these first hand, you should head to the city’s old part, Stone Town . 

The tropical island is hot all year round, with two wet seasons; November to December and March until May. The cooler months run  from June to October . However, if you decide to visit in the hot, dry season  from December to February , you could cool off by snorkeling in the crystal clear waters.

Zanzibar’s population is predominately Muslim, so you may want to check if you are visiting during Ramadan. Like visiting any other country, it is best always to lock up any valuables.

Best Countries to Visit in Northern Africa 

No list of the best countries to visit in Africa would be complete without mentioning Egypt. Located in Africa’s northern corners, Egypt borders Libya, Sudan, and Isreal, with  Cairo International Airport  as its main entry point.

Egypt is a must-visit place in Africa because:

• It’s home to the Pyramids – one of the most iconic heritage sites in the world.
• You’ll find the world’s longest river, the Nile, here, which offers breathtaking scenery and great cruising opportunities . 
• The Red Sea is a world-class scuba diving destination and just the spot to explore Egypt’s rich underwater world.  

Brimming with ancient history and unbelievable scenery, Egypt is a fascinating country and definitely deserves a spot on any African bucket list. While Egypt might be one of the world’s oldest civilizations, there’s more to this country than just its captivating history. Today, Egypt is a major tourist hub offering a wide range of experiences for all kinds of travelers, from nature to history to culture to shopping and much more. 

Getting a close-up view of the Pyramids and the Great Sphinx are obligatory things to do while visiting. Both these African landmarks are simply mind-blowing and the perfect spot to learn a bit more about the Egyptian Empire. Another must-do in Eqypt is joining a cruise on the Nile. Whether it be for a sunset or something a bit longer, it will be an unforgettable experience!

If you’re into diving, be sure to check out all the cool wrecks at Sharm El Sheikh or enjoy the laidback vibes at Dahab. Of course, there are lots more to do. For instance, explore the ancient temples in Luxor, unwind at Aswan, visit the White Desert or relax in the amazing Siwa Salt Lakes. 

Egypt is a good year-round destination, but the summers can be relentless. Therefore it’s best to come during  spring (Feb-Apr)  or  autumn (Oct- Nov) . 

Recommended by James from Travel Collecting. 

Morocco is located in northern Africa, across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain. The main international gateway is  Mohammed V International Airport  near Casablanca, though there are smaller international airports in Marrakech and Fes. 

Morocco is one of the best Africa countries to visit because:  

• Shopping.  Visiting the narrow, winding, labyrinthine streets of Marrakech’s markets, Meknes and Fes is an absolute must. There are tiny shops crammed with incredible handicrafts at great prices. 
• Morocco has incredible food . A great way to enjoy it and discover new treats is to take a  food tour . Marrakech especially is a great place for a food tour. You can sample everything from sweet mint tea to a sheep’s eyeball! 
• Varied experiences to enjoy outside the major cities.

There are many incredible places to visit in Morrocco and different things to see and do. The best part? You can easily arrange for a driver to take you from one destination to another over several days, stopping off along the way. This is safe and gives you the most flexibility. However, be sure to clarify exactly what is included in advance. You can visit ancient Kasbahs and date palm plantations, drive through narrow gorges, see rose water being distilled, ride a camel through the dunes and camp overnight in the Sahara Desert, visit the coastal towns, and much more. 

The best time to visit Morocco is during  spring  and  fall  to avoid the extreme heat of summer and the snow on the Atlas Mountains in winter. Morocco is generally safe for tourists, but be careful when asking people on the street for directions as they may mislead you.

Recommended by Ucman from BrownBoyTravels.

Tunisia  is a small country located in the North African strip, sandwiched between Algeria and Libya. While Tunisia might be tiny in size, it has a lot to offer – from beautiful beaches to ancient Roman architecture.

Tunisia is a great country to visit in Africa because:

• It is not yet overrun by mass tourism like Morocco, and it is great to experience the culture in its true form.
• Tunisia is quite cheap, easy to navigate, and owing to its relatively peaceful history; a safe place to visit.
• You’ll also find the world’s second-largest standing colosseum, located in Tunisia in El Jem, here. 

If you’re into history, you will love this place! Tunisia has a multifaceted culture with Roman, Arabic and French influences. If you speak French, you will have no problem because English isn’t widely spoken here. 

Don’t miss the medina (old town) of Tunis, which is the largest in North Africa. The beautiful village of Sidi Bou Said is also nearby. It is a place of great beauty where Tunisian culture meets jaw-dropping scenery in a liberating seaside fashion. It’s best to arrange your own transport, but it’s also easy to join a day tour .

Food is generally good and cheap, and people are warm and friendly. Furthermore, the country offers great weather most of the year with plenty of sunshine.

The best way to arrive in the country is through the  Tunis-Carthage International Airport  in Tunis, the Tunisia capital.

Best Countries to Visit in Africa: Western & Central Regions

Recommended by Erika from Erika’s Travels .

If you’re looking for the perfect warm escape in January , Cape Verde is for you! Cape Verde consists of ten volcanic islands that lie off the coast of Senegal, in West Africa.

Sal’s Amical Cabral International Airport  is the largest gateway. However, since the country consists of ten separate islands, it may not be the most convenient entry point. Four islands, Santiago, São Vicente, Sal, and Boa Vista, offer international routes to Europe. 

Cape Verde should be on your African Bucket List because:

• Cape Verde is among the safest countries in Africa . There is very little crime, especially on the smaller and less urbanized islands.
• With ten volcanic islands that differ drastically in topography and tourist offerings,  Cape Verde caters to a wide variety of travel styles —whether you’re looking for ocean,  hiking trails , desert, or mountains. 
• The scenery on Santo Antão is unlike anywhere else on Earth . The spectacular island is a hiker’s paradise that features terraced mountains, colorful villages, a sculpted coastline, and verdant valleys.

Cape Verde is a country with a unique Afro-Portuguese flavor. It’s scenic diversity and cultural richness make it a fantastic African adventure destination. 

While all islands have something to offer, Santo Antão is Cape Verde’s undisputed gem. The vertical island is where soaring mountains plunge into churning water, and picturesque towns cling to terraced hillsides. For an unforgettable trip to Santo Antão, be sure to drive the island’s Old Road. Exploring the Paul Valley, and hiking the coastal route from Ponta do Sol to Cha da Igreja should also not be overlooked. 

Beyond Santo Antão, Cape Verde’s other islands are also worth exploring. São Vincente and Santiago lure culture buffs interested in the country’s Afro-Portuguese history. The islands of Sal and Boa Vista attract sun-seekers and beach-loungers.

Beyond, far-flung Fogo, Brava, and Maio boast opportunities for authentic off-the-beaten-path travel. 

Sao Tome and Principe

Recommended by Heather Cole from Conversant Traveller. 

Known as the ‘Chocolate Islands’ thanks to their colonial cocoa plantation heritage, Sao Tome and Principe’s remote islands lay in the Gulf of Guinea, off Africa’s west coast. 

Despite their offbeat location, these islands are relatively easy to reach, with regular flights to  Sao Tome International Airport  from Lisbon. Some of the  best places to stay in Sao Tome and Principe  include renovated plantation mansions that are now boutique hotels and luxurious castaway beach lodges nestled between jungle and ocean.

Sao Tome is the main island, yet it still feels like the Earth’s ends with hidden lagoons, secluded beaches, and many coffee and cocoa plantation ruins to explore. To reach the smaller island of Principe, a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, jump on a domestic flight that takes just half an hour.

Principe is wild, with vast tracts of untamed rainforest, black volcanic shores, and fishing villages where the locals are genuinely curious to meet visitors from afar. The island is so small that it’s best to base yourself in one place and take day trips to discover the world’s smallest capital city, sea turtles nesting on the beaches, and hike the many mountain trails. Most visitors like to take a boat trip along the coast, stopping in some bays for snorkeling and picnics. It’s also a bird watcher’s paradise with several endemic species, including the dwarf ibis and the Principe kingfisher. 

The islands can be visited year-round, although it does get very wet during the rainy seasons between  October and November  and  February until May .

Best Countries to Visit in Africa in Conclusion

Whether you visit Africa for its incredible nature, fascinating history, bustling cities, or diverse cultures, you’ll never be bored. We hope this guide has inspired you to explore this beautiful continent and, more importantly, helped you narrow down which African countries to visit!  

That wraps up this guide on the best African countries to visit. Have you been to any of these countries on this African Bucket List yet? Feel free to share your top tips, best places to go, things to do, and anything in between below! 

If you enjoyed this guide best countries to visit in Africa, please pin it here.

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December 2, 2020 at

This list is absolutely amazing! I LOVE Africa, and any trip I go on, my bucket list just gets longer and longer. I was supposed to be boarding to Uganda now, as one of the top bucket list destinations on the Planet. I had to cancel it, but hopefully next year I will be able to visit. This list inspires me to add other incredible destinations. Thank you!

December 3, 2020 at

Thanks for stopping by, Paula. Sorry to hear about your trip; that’s a real bummer. But hopefully, you’ll get to go real soon!

I’ve got my eyes set on either Morocco or Namibia for my next trip…but I’m not sure how I’ll ever be able to choose; both are absolutely drool-worthy!

May 13, 2021 at

This Blog is very Informative.Thanks for Sharing.

June 29, 2022 at

I love this list. There are so many places to explore in Africa. Even this list is endless for places to visit in Africa.

June 30, 2022 at

Thanks so much Magdalene!

July 7, 2022 at

This is such an amazing post. It always feels like in order to find a really cool place to travel to you have to go out of the country and this post definitely opened up my eyes! Love this post so much.

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5 Best Places for Affordable Winter Vacations in Africa: our Top African Getaways to Escape Winter

Posted by Stephanie Parker on December 12 2023 in Africa Beaches & Islands Enquire Now!

Winter vacations in Africa hold a magical allure as the dark nights grow longer and the cold winds of the northern hemisphere send chills down our spines. Thankfully there are plenty of affordable winter vacation options in Africa, so it is easier than you may think to escape to Africa's summer. Why not exchange the icy tendrils of winter for a sunny African safari and beach holiday next year?

Many of us dream of getting away to equatorial climates and tropical warmth during our long, chilly winter months, and the continent of Africa offers unique, memorable and affordable ways to do this by the bucket load!

From wildlife safari adventures to pristine beaches, Africa really does have it all! 

So we asked our team of African Travel Experts to name their favourite places to soak up the sun and escape the northern winter blues. Hopefully, they’ll inspire you to do the same!

#1 South Africa Vacation 

South Africa boasts some of the finest Big 5 safaris on the continent, making it a paradise for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. And to be honest, what makes a safari adventure in South Africa even more appealing is how affordable it can be!

Due to the recent weakening of the South African Rand, this country is now one of the most affordable destinations for wildlife safaris in Africa. 

On top of this, you’ve also got thousands of miles of incredible beaches to choose from in sunny South Africa , making an affordable winter vacation here perfect if you’re looking for that magic blend of wildlife and beach life.

And the even better news is that, while the climate varies a lot across this vast country, it’s summer here during the northern hemisphere winter.

In particular, the best time to visit Cape Town falls during this period. While the peak months to explore this city are December and January, you can still enjoy warm and pleasant weather here right up until March. This is also the perfect time of year to explore the Garden Route, Addo Elephant Park, Hermanus, Knysna and Jeffreys Bay. 

Kruger National Park may be experiencing some summer rains at this time of year but, more often than not, showers are short and you’ll still be able to spot a plethora of wildlife.

There’s also another huge benefit to a budget-friendly winter vacation in South Africa - most of the country is a malaria-free zone - always good news for travellers! 

#2 Tanzania Vacation

Tanzania is widely agreed to be one of the best places in Africa for a wildlife safari adventure and, with excellent tourist infrastructure as well as some stunning Indian Ocean coastline, this country has it all!

Visiting Tanzania in the northern hemisphere’s winter months can be a great option, as you’ll dodge the busy peak season and likely pick up an affordable winter vacation deal. While the masses head to the Serengeti between July and October for the Wildebeest migration (aka Great Migration), this Tanzanian park really does offer world-class game viewing all year round. 

Late January to February is the wildebeest calving season - a perfect time for wildlife enthusiasts to witness newborn herbivores dotting the plains which, in turn, draw in the Serengeti's majestic big cats. 

We recommend combining your safari adventure in Tanzania with an idyllic beach holiday on the tropical island of Zanzibar too. The enchanting shores and towns of the fabled ‘Spice Island’ boast stunning white-sand beaches and a rich cultural history that will certainly make for an unforgettable winter escape in Africa.  

#3 Kenya Vacation

Kenya beckons to many travellers looking to get away on a winter vacation in Africa, and the allure is pretty obvious! Not only does this country boast world-famous safari parks and white-sand, tropical beaches, but it's also one of the cheapest sub-Saharan countries to fly into thanks to its well-developed tourism industry. 

Affordable flights and excellent tourism infrastructure make Kenya a dream winter escape in Africa for those watching their wallets!

Visit between December and January and you'll be treated to the charm and drama of calving season in the Masai Mara, when the plains are transformed into a bustling nursery for newborn animals. This is an ideal time to visit if you’re a wildlife photography enthusiast especially, as photo ops abound!  

After your safari adventures, Kenya's 536km coastline along the Indian Ocean beckons most beach lovers, who love to relax amidst its tropical haven of calm waters and beautiful sand.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort, buzzing spots to meet other travellers, thrilling water sports, or even enchanting dolphin and whale watching trips, Kenya’s shores and islands have it all - with Lamu, Diani, Galu, Kikambala and Kilifi being some of the most popular spots. 

#4 Malawi Winter Vacation

Malawi , known as the "Warm Heart of Africa," is not the first country on most people’s radar when it comes to finding a winter vacation in Africa. But don’t be fooled into overlooking this undiscovered gem!

From its sun-kissed, golden sand stretches and the turquoise waters of Lake Malawi, to its lush, forested mountains and beautiful safari parks, this unassuming country has all the ingredients for an ideal winter getaway.

Lake Malawi’s crystal-clear waters and incredible biodiversity make it perfect for scuba diving and kayaking, while its year-round balmy climate and unspoilt surroundings make this a perfect place to unwind and leave the hustle and bustle of life behind. 

While Malawi may not be the first destination that springs to mind when thinking of a safari holiday, for those in the know, it's quickly becoming one of Africa's best-kept wildlife secrets!

Spurred on by incredible conservation efforts and a series of animal reintroductions by African Parks , Malawi has experienced a remarkable wildlife renaissance in recent years, and is now a Big 5 safari destination, offering exceptional game viewing opportunities. 

And because mass tourism hasn’t developed widely in this African country yet, it’s likely you’ll get to enjoy these unspoiled reserves all to yourself too… even better! 

#5 Botswana Winter Vacation 

While Botswana might not win the title of Africa's most wallet-friendly option for winter vacations, it's undeniably a major bucket list item for many. So what better time to visit the gems of Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta (which both sit within this country’s borders) than during the colder months in the northern hemisphere?

Widely recognized as one of Africa's premier safari destinations, Botswana guarantees amazing wildlife areas, breathtaking landscapes and abundant sunshine, along with a catalogue of other extraordinary African experiences.

December is one of the best times to explore the magic of the vast and mysterious Kalahari Desert here - a hidden gem teeming with migratory birds and newborn animals after the seasonal rains.

While this land-locked country may lack beaches, it more than makes up for it with the enchanting waterways of the Okavango Delta, and unforgettable sunset boat rides on the Chobe River, allowing you up-close and unrivalled water-based animal encounters. 

Affordable Winter Vacations in Africa

So there you have our top 5 affordable winter vacations in Africa - all of which are ideal for escaping the bite of the northern hemisphere winter. These are by no means the only budget-friendly options for winter getaways in Africa. From Madagascar and Rwanda to Mozambique and Zambia, there are plenty of other affordable vacation spots to explore.

Each offers its own unique set of adventures and, with plenty of budget safari packages and tour options available through African Budget Safaris , these winter getaways are more accessible than you might think!

If you’re tempted to swap your warm coat for a safari hat this winter, check out some of the fantastic and affordable tour options on our site, or speak to one of our Africa Travel Experts for information on specific destinations and travel advice.

If you enjoyed this blog post or would like to get our latest safari deals, sign up for our monthly African safari newsletter .

If you liked this post, these trips cover similar ground…

• 10 Day Kenya Safari & Beach Holiday - Masai Mara & Mombasa
• 10 Day Kenya Safari - Masai Mara & Samburu Senior Trip
• 11 Day Classic Botswana Safari: Delta, Moremi, Savuti & Chobe
• 5 Day Tented Botswana Safari - Delta, Moremi & Savuti
• 13 Day South Africa Safari & Eswatini Tour
• 8 Day South Africa Safari - Garden Route to Cape Town Tour
• 10 Day Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Vacation - Overland Camping
• 15 Day Kenya & Tanzania Safari: Masai Mara, Serengeti & Zanzibar
• 6 Day Zanzibar Honeymoon Package
• 7-Day Northern Malawi Safari (Budget Lodge Tour)
• 16 Day Zambia & Malawi Safari (Small Group Tour)

About the Author

Stephanie parker.

Places Mentioned in this Post

1. Botswana

3. South Africa

5. Tanzania

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