Best countries to visit in Africa

If you plan to visit Africa, choosing safe and interesting countries is crucial. Start by checking the latest ranking of the safest countries in Africa, then choose the one that best fits your interests from the list below. In this article, we'll cover many popular tourist destinations and show you what makes each one worth visiting.

The idea of the ‘best country’ is subjective, as everyone has different preferences for which African countries to visit first. Some are drawn to wildlife, others prefer beach vacations, while some are more interested in cultural experiences. To stay objective, we've compiled a list of popular and interesting destinations in each country along with recommended activities. You can also add your own ideas to these lists. Consider this selection a starting point for planning your trip to Africa.

Tanzania and Zanzibar

Tanzania stands out as one of the most politically and socially stable countries in East Africa, offering visitors high safety. While the country is primarily agricultural, with vast fields and welcoming, friendly locals, tourism is also a primary industry, accounting for up to a quarter of foreign revenue. The country knows exactly how to captivate adventurers, with its iconic attractions like Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak (5,895 m/19,341 ft), and safaris through the wilds of Serengeti National Park.

In addition, Tanzania is home to dozens of other protected areas with abundant wildlife, each offering the perfect setting for a safari. Whether you prefer to explore by vehicle, on foot, or even by air, Tanzania lets you choose the best way to immerse yourself in the raw African natural beauty.

African safari in Tanzania

Along the warm shores of the Indian Ocean, Tanzania offers some stunning beaches. The famous island of Zanzibar is actually part of Tanzania. In addition to relaxing on the beach, visitors can enjoy diving, snorkeling, and exploring the island’s rich history and culture. The Zanzibar Archipelago also includes other fascinating islands like Pemba, Mnemba, and dozens more, each with unique charm.

What to do in Tanzania

• Observe the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti National Park.
• Descend into the ancient Ngorongoro Crater to see the Big Five animals.
• Conquer the Roof of Africa by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, which is accessible to most travelers.
• Relax on the white Zanzibar beaches.
• Wander through the ancient Stone Town on Unguja, the main island of the Zanzibar Archipelago.
• Dive with whale sharks near Mafia Island.
• Experience solitude in the wilderness of Ruaha National Park.
• Visit Olduvai Gorge, the "Cradle of Mankind", recognized as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• See millions of flamingos at Lake Natron.
• Observe the life of the Maasai herders and Hadza hunters.

You can chat with us by clicking the icon in the bottom right corner. Our travel experts are ready to share insider tips and help you craft the perfect vacation in Tanzania.

Mauritius and the Seychelles

Because these island nations share many similarities, we’ll cover them together. The Republic of Seychelles is the smallest country in Africa, and Mauritius also ranks among the top four. Both countries are among the richest countries in Africa, meaning they have the highest average living standards on the African continent. Many wealthiest Africans tend to live here. As a result, Seychelles and Mauritius offer a level of comfort well above most other African countries.

Mauritius is an archipelago located east of Madagascar, known for its turquoise lagoons and pristine white-sand beaches. The main island boasts excellent roads, modern hotels, and top-tier service. With its mild climate and a unique blend of African, Asian, and European cultures, Mauritius delivers a vibrant experience, particularly regarding food. The island also offers a wide range of water-based activities.

What to do in Mauritius

• Relax on the magical beach of the private Île aux Cerfs island.
• Admire the Chamarel Waterfall.
• See the beautiful Seven Colored Sands near the village of Chamarel.
• Observe rare birds like the ring-necked parakeet, pink pigeon, Mascarene fody, and others at Black River Gorges National Park.
• Marvel at the water lilies and giant lotus flowers at the Botanical Garden near Port Louis.
• Hike to the famous Le Morne Brabant mountain.

Seychelles offers world-class travel experiences, with luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and charming guesthouses. The government strongly focuses on preserving the islands’ unique ecosystem, making it a top choice for eco-tourism lovers. Surrounded by coral reefs, the waters around the islands are perfect for snorkeling and diving. For those looking for more active adventures, there are jungle hikes and nature reserves home to rare and fascinating wildlife.

What to do in the Seychelles

• Relax on one of the photogenic beaches: Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette, Anse Source d'Argent.
• See the endemic Coco de Mer palm and black parrot at the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve.
• Buy local fruits, spices, and seafood at the Victoria market in the capital city.
• Study giant tortoises on Curieuse Island.

Egypt

Egypt needs little introduction, given its rich historical heritage: the pyramids, the Temple of Luxor, the Avenue of Sphinxes, the Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings and Queens, and many other iconic monuments from Ancient Egypt. As a nation that bridges Africa and the Middle East, Egypt holds a unique cultural and geographical position, blending African heritage with deep-rooted ties to the Arab world. Beyond its history, Egypt boasts a long coastline along the Red Sea, home to coral reefs considered one of Africa’s seven natural wonders. Tourism is a major part of Egypt's economy, with a well-established tradition of welcoming visitors. Key destinations like Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh maintain high levels of safety for travelers. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly hostel or a luxurious all-inclusive resort with entertainment, Egyptian resorts have something for everyone.

What to do in Egypt

• Dive into the underwater world of the Red Sea.
• Visit the pyramids of Giza.
• Explore the main archaeological sites in Luxor and its surroundings.
• Embark on an overnight tour of the Sahara Desert.
• Sail across the calm waters of the Nile on a felucca, a traditional sailing boat.
• Take a cruise along the Nile on a comfortable liner.
• Bring the whole family to relax at a resort in Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab, or Hurghada.
• Visit the ancient ruins in Alexandria, the city founded by Alexander the Great.

Madagascar

Madagascar is famous for its baobab trees, unique African wildlife like lemurs, and many national parks. Located on a large island off the eastern coast of East Africa, the country has a relatively low standard of living. While the infrastructure is underdeveloped, with many rough roads, the natural beauty is truly unique. Traveling around the island is an exciting adventure for those who can embrace a bit of discomfort and don't expect top-tier service. However, the conditions are acceptable in tourist hotspots and coastal resorts.

What to do in Madagascar

• See lemurs at the Lemurs’ Park and the Andasibe-Mantadia and Analamazaotra national parks.
• Watch the sunset at the Avenue of the Baobabs.
• Relax on the beaches of Nosy Be Island, home to black lemurs and the world’s smallest chameleon and frog.
• Admire the Tsingy Forest in the Tsingy de Bemaraha park.
• Take a walk through the canyon in Isalo National Park.
• Visit the hot springs in Ranomafana National Park.
• Dive into the pirate history of Nosy Boraha Island, also known as Sainte-Marie.

Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia

The culture of the Middle East is strongly reflected in the Maghreb countries of North Africa. Of those, Morocco stands out as perhaps the most vibrant. It’s a captivating blend of ancient traditions, bustling Eastern bazaars, old fortresses, and towering minarets, set against stunning mountain landscapes, the Sahara Desert's scorching heat, and the Atlantic coastline's cool breeze. The colorful streets of Moroccan cities, the rich flavors of its cuisine, Berber camp tents, and the lively atmosphere of the port city of Casablanca make Morocco a must-see for travelers who visit Africa to dive into its Islamic traditions and history.

Algeria may be less popular among tourists, but it still attracts history and architecture enthusiasts, thanks to its ancient rock paintings and Roman ruins. As the biggest country in Africa, with 90% of its land covered by desert, Algeria is the perfect destination for those eager to explore the vast expanse of the Sahara.

Tunisia, though small in size, boasts a well-developed tourism sector and a rich cultural heritage. Along with cultural tours, beach vacations, scuba diving, and windsurfing are popular activities here. And don't miss the ancient city-museum of Carthage, which is located in Tunisia.

What to do in Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria

• Spend an evening at Jemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakech, where snake charmers, musicians, storytellers, magicians, and street food vendors perform.
• Stroll through the Majorelle Garden, see the ruins of the Kasbah-palace of El Badi, and walk among olive trees in the Menara Gardens in Marrakech.
• Visit the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, standing right by the ocean.
• Go hiking in the Atlas Mountains.
• Admire the blue-and-white city of Chefchaouen.
• Take a stroll through the port city of Essaouira, which was once a haven for hippies in the last century.
• Explore the ruins of Carthage, once rivaling Rome.
• Visit Djerba Island: relax on its beautiful beaches and visit local museums.
• Imagine gladiator battles at the Amphitheater of El Djem.
• Visit the underground city of Matmata, where people live in semi-underground traditional homes.
• Go on a desert safari in the Sahara by jeep or camel.
• Explore rock art on the Tassili n'Ajjer plateau.
• Appreciate the beauty of ancient Roman architecture in Dougga and other ruined cities.

The Republic of South Africa

The Republic of South Africa (or simply South Africa) is one of the most developed African countries, with the largest economy on the continent. Its cities are modern, the infrastructure provides a high standard of living and comfort, and tourists can choose from a wide range of hotels and entertainment options. South Africa offers something for everyone: traditional safaris, beautiful beaches, visits to vineyards, cultural experiences in museums and historical sites of Cape Town, mountain hiking, and even the thrill of shark diving.

However, safety in South Africa varies greatly depending on the region and the time of day. In major cities, crime rates can be relatively high, and some areas are prone to unrest. That said, there are also wealthy neighborhoods with a strong police and security presence. South Africa is a country of contrasts, where your journey could be peaceful and enjoyable or unexpectedly turn into an extreme adventure. When traveling here, it’s crucial to exercise heightened caution.

What to do in South Africa

• Visit Cape Town and its stunning V&A Waterfront.
• Climb Table Mountain, by cable car or on foot.
• Take a walk along the suspension walkway in Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden.
• Stop by the Two Oceans Aquarium.
• Mark your visit to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point of Africa, where the Indian and the Atlantic oceans meet.
• Go to Boulders Beach to watch African penguins, who only live in South Africa and Namibia.
• Take a road trip to Kruger National Park.
• See one of Africa’s highest waterfalls, Tugela Falls.
• Drive along the Garden Route from Cape Town to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

Namibia

Namibia is one of the safest and most comfortable countries in Southern Africa and across the entire continent. The standard of living is above average, the roads can compete with those of the USA or European countries, and the tourism infrastructure is well-developed. At the same time, you'll avoid the crowds common in other destinations. Safety is a top priority here. Namibia is ideal for road trips, allowing you to drive long distances while enjoying breathtaking landscapes. In this country, the desert meets the ocean in a way that's hard to describe. Namibia preserves the untouched beauty of Africa, and it's definitely a place worth visiting.

What to do in Namibia

• Wander through the Deadvlei Valley, surrounded by the skeletons of trees that died 600 years ago, in Sossusvlei.
• Climb the famous Big Daddy Dune, Dune 7, and Dune 45.
• Discover the sand-buried houses in the ghost town of Kolmanskop.
• Hike along the floor of Africa's largest canyon, the Fish River Canyon.
• Explore thousands of ancient rock paintings in the Twyfelfontein valley, including the famous “Dancing Kudu” and “Lion Man.”
• Watch wild animals on a safari in Etosha National Park.
• Admire the well-preserved colonial architecture in Swakopmund.
• See the world’s largest seal colony at Cape Cross.
• Find the rusted remains of wrecked ships on the Skeleton Coast.

Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC

These three African countries are magnets for travelers wanting to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The best trekking routes are in Uganda and Rwanda. Uganda is a scenic country with diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains and stunning lakes. While mass tourism is still relatively underdeveloped, many of its reserves are well-known and popular. Overall, Uganda is perfect for active travelers looking for adventure.

Although small, Rwanda is absolutely stunning, with its green hills, lakes, tea plantations, volcanoes, and mountains, all connected by a network of well-maintained roads. The country is beautiful and quite modern, though the people live in poverty. Tourism in Rwanda is growing rapidly, mainly focusing on eco-friendly practices.

In contrast, the vast territories of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are not considered comfortable or safe for most travelers. The political situation is unstable, armed conflicts are common, and crime rates are high. Tourism is very underdeveloped, so any trip to the DRC requires thorough planning and strict safety precautions. Nevertheless, the country boasts incredible natural wealth and raw, untouched landscapes.

What to do in Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC

• Take a gorilla trekking tour in the dense forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
• Go fishing on Lake Victoria.
• Conquer the peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains via challenging treks.
• Try birdwatching on Lake Bunyonyi.
• Catch a rainbow over the cascading Murchison Falls (or Kabalega Falls).
• Go on a safari adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Kidepo Valley.
• Trek to golden monkeys and gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.
• Learn about the 1990s trauma at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
• Spot the Big Five in Akagera National Park.
• Visit local villages during a cruise along the Congo River.
• Find the home of researcher Dian Fossey in Virunga National Park, one of the Unesco World Heritage Sites.
• Observe the activity of Mount Nyiragongo volcano.

Kenya

Kenya is a popular destination for travelers in East Africa, well-known for its incredible national parks and scenic coastline along the Indian Ocean. The standard of living here is higher than in neighboring countries like Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, and Uganda, though there’s a noticeable gap between wealthy and poor areas. Most tourist destinations are generally safe, though extra caution is advised in the capital, Nairobi, and the semi-arid northern regions. Kenya offers quality accommodations, good road infrastructure, and plenty of opportunities for active adventures.

What to do in Kenya

• Visit the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve and the Hell’s Gate National Park, which inspired the landscapes in the movie The Lion King.
• Climb Africa's second-highest mountain, Mount Kenya.
• Wander through the streets of the ancient Swahili city of Lamu on the eponymous island.
• Spend time on the beaches of Mombasa and stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town.
• Soak up the sun on Diani Beach.
• Observe elephants in Amboseli National Park.
• Spend a night in the luxurious Giraffe Manor Hotel.
• See flamingos at Lake Nakuru.
• Go on an African safari in the historic parks of Western and Eastern Tsavo.

Botswana

Botswana is a stable, safe, and well-developed country. Its tourism industry mainly caters to the premium segment. Safaris here tend to be more expensive than in countries like Kenya, but in return, travelers enjoy privacy and top-tier service. The main draws are the world-famous Okavango Delta and the vast Kalahari Desert. Unlike more crowded destinations, Botswana’s parks offer a quiet, exclusive experience. A trip here is truly a luxurious way to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Africa.

What to do in Botswana

• Take a boat ride along the Okavango waterway in the Moremi Game Reserve.
• Go on a safari in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
• Photograph the stunning landscapes of the private Mokolodi Game Reserve and the salt pans of Makgadikgadi.
• Meet some of the last survivors of Africa: the hunters and gatherers of the San people.
• Try counting the elephants in Chobe National Park (there are several tens of thousands of them).

Zimbabwe and Zambia

Nature enthusiasts visit Zimbabwe and Zambia for their shared natural wonder: the iconic Victoria Falls, which straddles their border. Both countries offer classic African safari experiences and a chance to connect with nature. However, Zimbabwe tends to be a bit more diverse regarding travel options. In addition to safaris, visitors can enjoy cultural tours, mountain trekking, and even adrenaline-filled activities like bungee jumping from heights of over 100 meters (330 ft).

What to do in Zimbabwe and Zambia

• See the majestic Victoria Falls and swim in the Devil's Pool on the cliff's edge.
• Watch famous wild dogs on a walking safari in the Hwange and South Luangwa National Parks.
• Try rafting on the Zambezi River.
• Collect a photo gallery of over 500 bird species in Kafue National Park.
• Visit the mysterious stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe.
• Bungee jump 111 meters (365 ft) from the Victoria Falls Bridge for a heart-pounding thrill.

This list could certainly include more African countries, but the ones we've covered are more than enough to help you choose a destination. Whether you're drawn to the wonders of North Africa, the coastal beauty of East Africa, or the energetic cities of West Africa, the continent promises unforgettable experiences.

Choose the countries that resonate most with you, and start planning your journey through the best that Africa has to offer!

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