Africa is three times the size of the US, so it’s shocking to think so many people still mistake it for one singular nation. Among the thousands of miles of dramatically changing cultures, landscapes, and peoples, Africa is a shifting tapestry of countries where no two are exactly alike. These myriad differences are exactly what make it so hard to decide where to go. With so many options, it can be near impossible to settle on the best countries to visit in Africa, let alone your next destination.
But from the stunning beaches of the Mediterranean to the searing heat of the Sahara desert—and the lush rainforests of landlocked countries—we’ll take you through all of the best countries to visit in Africa.
Table of Contents
- 1. South Africa
- 2. Egypt
- 3. Kenya
- 4. Morocco
- 5. Ethiopia
- 6. Seychelles
- 7. Tanzania
- 8. Botswana
- 9. Mauritius
- 10. Namibia
- 11. Malawi
- 12. Uganda
- 13. Rwanda
- 14. Tunisia
- 15. Madagascar
- Let Next Vacay Find You the Top Flight Deals for Your African Adventures
1. South Africa
On the continent’s southernmost tip, wedged between the sea and sky, visitors enter the wondrous world of South Africa. A melting pot of cultures and histories, it’s easy to see how South Africa earned the name “Rainbow Nation.” As soon as you step foot on the soil, you’re swept away on a ride through vibrant cities, sprawling national parks, and breathtaking landscapes.
From the golden sands of Port Elizabeth to the colorful homes of Cape Town, each city offers a distinct atmosphere and character to fall in love with when you visit South Africa. Beyond the city limits stretch miles and miles of national parks. The country is actually home to some of the best national parks in Africa. Table Mountain National Park perches above Cape Town with unique flora and fauna to explore. Meanwhile, Kruger National Park dominates the land along the border with Mozambique, offering one of the world’s largest game preserves and a magnificent place to spot the Big Five.
Whether you opt for a road trip along the Garden Route or wander the quaint villages of the Cape Winelands, South Africa is one of the most diverse countries to visit, promising a treat for all the senses.
2. Egypt
Egypt is a highlight reel of wonders, a land of ancient civilizations, jaw-dropping landmarks, and shifting geographies. Easily one of the best countries to visit in Africa, the brilliance of ancient Egypt still captivates to this day. Marvels like the Sphinx, the Valley of the Kings, and the Great Pyramids of Giza—the only surviving site of the original seven wonders—draw scores of visitors from the world over.
But ancient wonders are far from Egypt’s only draw. Lively souks, dazzling mosques, and lush gardens add to the country’s vibrancy. With the Sahara Desert encapsulating Egypt to the west and south, life is left to flourish along the Nile River, from the picturesque river scenery of Aswan to the coastal views and captivating street art of Alexandria.
While the Nile is the source of life in Egypt, it’s not the only significant body of water. Tucked between the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, Egypt offers ancient wonders alongside beautiful beaches, desert dunes, and charming cities.
3. Kenya
Kenya is nearly synonymous with safaris. If you want to see and experience amazing wildlife, Kenya is one of the best African countries to do it. Open plains unveil herds of zebra, lion prides, and flocks of flamingos so large that they turn the lakes pink in places. Endless savannahs mean Kenya is no stranger to remarkable safari parks. No better place exists to take your safari trip than the Maasai Mara National Reserve. This must-see spot allows visitors to watch the Great Migration in action and learn about one of Kenya’s oldest tribes.
The country’s wildlife is so prevalent that it even makes itself known in Kenya’s largest city. Nairobi teems with culture, art, and colorful matatus in the streets, all framed to the south by Nairobi National Park—the only national park in a capital city. Also in Nairobi, just a short drive away, sits Giraffe Manor, where guests can sip tea while feeding giraffes.
From the plains and lakes of the nation’s core to the shimmering Indian Ocean on its east coast, Kenya is a must-visit jewel of east Africa.
4. Morocco
Magic awaits amid Saharan dunes, the High Atlas Mountains, and the Mediterranean Sea. Morocco bursts to life with verdant gardens, stunning palaces, and iridescent cities.
From cultural centers like Fes to the whitewashed hillside of Tangier, Moroccan cities are as diverse as the landscapes. The souks and riads of Marrakesh make for an unforgettable trip to the former imperial city. But the cobbled lanes and painted walls of Chefchaouen, the Blue City, are a must-see.
Shaped by a storied past, Morocco’s African, Arabic, Berber, and Western influences form one of the most diverse countries to visit in north Africa. The result is a rich culture with interesting architecture and savory flavors.
Morocco stands out as a unique African country full of breathtaking scenery and wild experiences perfect for romantic getaways or family-fun holidays. From camping in the Sahara under a sky full of scars to lounging under the sun on the sands of Agadir, Morocco is a beautiful oasis begging for exploration.
5. Ethiopia
This landlocked country in the horn of Africa is the only one on the entire continent never colonized by foreigners. Here, African culture shines with a past dating back over three million years.
History buffs will delight in exploring the ancient ruins of the Kingdom of Aksum, the 12-century churches of Lalibela, and Fasil Ghebbi—a 17th-century fortress designated a UNESCO world heritage site.
But ancient history is far from the only thing that makes Ethiopia shine. The Simien Mountains host stunning highland scenery and incredible wildlife. Baboons snack on thyme while elusive walia ibex scale mountains and the rarest canid in the world, the Ethiopian wolves, prowl the grasslands.
The natural wonders in Ethiopia also stand apart. Following the rainy season, the Blue Nile Falls span hundreds of meters wide, creating a thundering roar. But adventure seekers may find themselves called further west, where salt and lava lakes sit in one of the eeriest and most inhospitable places on earth, the Danakil Depression.
Nothing about Ethiopia is boring. Everything from ancient kingdoms and sweltering craters makes it one of the best and most exciting countries to visit in Africa.
6. Seychelles
A small country off the coast of East Africa, Seychelles is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean. This idyllic paradise is seen as the quintessential honeymoon getaway. Magnificent beaches offer relaxing stretches of sand, while turquoise waters hide incredible worlds tailor fit for scuba diving and snorkeling. But you’d be wrong to think the exceptional shores are all Seychelles has to offer.
Of the 115 islands that make up Seychelles, the majority of them are uninhabited. Instead of people, dense rainforests and mountainous regions dominate the islands’ interiors, allowing rare flora and fauna to flourish. Giant fruit bats glide through the air over Cousine Island while giant tortoises lumber along the sands of Aldabra. With so many islands, it’s no surprise that each offers something unique—presenting the perfect excuse to visit more than one island.
Dominated by nature preserves, the protected lands of Seychelles present a perfect opportunity to bask in nature, sunshine, and glorious views in one of the most unspoiled countries you can visit in Africa.
7. Tanzania
Heeding the call of the mountain will bring you to the diverse land of Tanzania. Here, snow-topped Kilimanjaro begs to be bested or admired, depending on your penchant for daring adventures. But whether you climb it or simply take in the stunning view, the continent’s highest point earns Tanzania its special place among the best countries to visit in Africa.
Far from its only draw, Tanzania has many landscapes to explore. Great lakes border the country to the north and west, while almost 900 miles of shoreline dominate the east coast. The white sand and secluded beaches promise the perfect spot to lounge in a hammock under waving palms and bright sunlight. Off the coast, Zanzibar entices with charming buildings and hotel-lined beaches.
But, of course, who could forget the rich wildlife of Tanzania’s interior? Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous on the continent, showcasing vast herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles.
The diversity and beauty of Tanzania make it one of the best African countries for adventures of all kinds.
8. Botswana
Squirreled away between Namibia to the west, Zambia and Zimbabwe to the north and east, and South Africa everywhere else, you may be tempted to overlook this unassuming country for one of its more boisterous neighbors. Is that the sound of the Victoria Falls in the distance? But bypassing Botswana would be a mistake because this natural gem is truly one of the best countries to visit in Africa.
Over two-thirds of this South African country is consumed by the Kalahari Desert. In contrast, the Okavango Delta is a wetland wilderness, teeming with lush habitats for everything from hippos to crocodiles and leopards to elephants. With a singular commitment to conservation, Botswana boasts one of the continent’s largest populations of African elephants. Chobe National Park is home to the largest number of them, in addition to lions, Cape buffalo, and antelopes. Planning your African safari here all but guarantees an unforgettable experience.
And don’t get us started on sunsets. Sundown in Botswana delivers magical moments, with watercolor sunsets straight out of a Disney movie. With the sun sinking below the horizon and casting the towering giraffes in silhouette, it’s easy to see why Botswana is considered a top safari destination in Africa.
9. Mauritius
Tucked away in the Indian Ocean like a sparkling jewel in velvet lies Mauritius. Over 600 miles separate this country from its closest neighbor, Madagascar. The result is a remote island that feels leagues away from any other African nation or any country in general. Which makes Mauritius’s cultural diversity all the more striking.
The island’s Hindu, Muslim, Chinese, and Creole cultures shine most brightly in Port Louis. Here, you can explore colorful Hindu temples and French-colonial buildings and join in vibrant Chinese festivals. Of course, this unique blend of sights, sounds, and experiences carries over into taste too. The mix of cultural cuisines and dishes promises an explosion of flavors with every delicious meal.
The island’s south end holds countless attractions, from the islet of Île aux Aigrettes to the natural beauty of Black River Gorges National Park. Mauritius is chock full of gorgeous beaches, cascading waterfalls, and the kind of beauty you have to see with your own eyes to believe.
10. Namibia
Southern Africa holds its share of gems, but one often passed over by eager visitors to Africa is Namibia. Sparsely populated, Namibia’s allure lies in its dramatic landscapes, which range from vibrant dunes to shipwreck-dotted shores. The first you can find in the Namib-Naukluft National Park, where climbing Big Daddy is a rite of passage. The latter lies off the aptly named Skeleton Coast, where the barren remains of wrecked ships dot the horizon.
With such bleak and dry landscapes, Namibia doesn’t sound like a country where life flourishes. But its ever-changing environments are one of the major reasons why Namibia is seen as one of the best countries to visit in Africa.
There aren’t many places where you can travel from spooky coasts to salt pans framed by dunes and wind up in a place bursting with wild animals, but that’s Etosha National Park for you. The Etosha Salt Pan is so big it can be viewed from space. And surrounding it all, the park houses free-roaming cheetahs, black rhinos, and the only desert elephants on the continent. But perhaps the most impressive site in this mind-blowing country is Fish River Canyon, the largest canyon in Africa and one offering up jaw-dropping scenery.
Namibia offers a diverse country sure to spoil wildlife enthusiasts, bucket list fanatics, and people who love to wonder at the marvels of nature.
11. Malawi
The country of Malawi is landlocked, so you wouldn’t expect to see sandy beaches, beautiful islands, and rare tropical fish. Yet that’s exactly what visitors to Malawi find thanks to one standout star: Lake Malawi. Located mainly in Malawi, this great lake provides laid-back beach getaways in one of the most surprising places in Africa.
Sitting on the lake’s southern end, Cape Maclear hosts beach resorts right by the water with spectacular views. And at its back sits Lake Malawi National Park. This sprawling forest contains everything from baboons and leopards to hornbills and nightjars, not to mention the fish that live in Lake Malawi. With over 1,000 different species, the lake boasts more fish species than any other in the world.
Because Malawi doesn’t top many lists of the best countries to visit in Africa, some may be hesitant to visit this little-known and unfamiliar country. But not only is it an excellent place for sand and safari, Malawi truly leads with its goodwill. Called the “Warm Heart of Africa,” Malawi’s friendly people will quickly make this unfamiliar place feel like home as you interact with the culture and explore the local communities.
The heart of its people and the jewel of Lake Malawi make this nation one of a kind.
12. Uganda
While other nations have their jewels, Uganda has long been considered the “Pearl of Africa.” Unlike other gems, pearls don’t require polishing or cutting to shine. Similarly, the natural beauty of Uganda is a rare find that needs no aid to stand out. That’s likely why Lonely Planet crowned it the best country to visit in 2012, not just in Africa but in the world.
Stepping foot on Ugandan soil is like stepping into a fairytale. Dramatic scenery awaits everywhere you look. Great lakes, stunning falls, and towering mountains dot the country’s landscape, offering a feast for the eyes. Uganda will take your breath away, from Murchison Falls, where the water is powerful enough to shake the earth, to lovely Lake Bunyonyi, with its small islands and hillside terraces.
On top of being the source of the Nile and home to the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, the Mountains of the Moon, Uganda is one of only three countries where you can encounter mountain gorillas in the wild. Consequently, gorilla trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is a must-do experience, promising unforgettable memories.
13. Rwanda
Overcoming a dark and turbulent period, Rwanda has become one of the safest countries in the world, making it an exceptional destination to visit in Africa. In Kigali, where the Rwanda genocide first began, locals and visitors alike can safely stroll down tree-lined boulevards after sunset. A vibrant nightlife keeps the city young, while bustling markets, exciting sporting events, and colorful art scenes entice visitors to stay and explore.
Of course, the Land of a Thousand Hills delivers more than safe and colorful city streets. Adventure awaits in the country’s sprawling preserves and rainforests. Explore Rwandan culture at the King’s Palace Museum or enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Nyungwe National Park from the Canopy Walkway.
But hands down, one of the best reasons to visit Rwanda—and what makes it one of the best countries in Africa—is the mountain gorillas. Volcanoes National Park is home to the largest population of mountain gorillas. Moreover, Rwanda’s workable terrain and comfortable accommodations make bringing this bucket list item to life that much easier.
The country has spent decades reinventing itself and investing in security. For that, travelers are eternally grateful to be able to enjoy this awe-inspiring nation once again.
14. Tunisia
Tunisia is a beautiful country sandwiched between Algeria and Libya. And while it lacks in the sheer size of its neighbors, it holds its own in the breadth of stunning scenery and impressive archeological spectacles. Tunisia is a dream destination for history buffs. Ruled by a plethora of nations and empires, its past extends from the Carthaginians and the Romans to the Ottomans and the French. Now an independent country, you’ll find remnants of its history scattered throughout the country. Just outside Tunisia sit the Ruins of Carthage, while the Roman Amphitheater of El Jem stands strong near Sousse.
Along the coast, dazzling waters are overlooked by beautiful cities that rival Santorini. Sidi Bou Said is often called the Santorini of Tunisia, with the same eye-catching blue and white color scheme as the famous Greek Island.
Lounge on the beach, explore Star Wars filming locations, and journey beyond the Atlas Mountains to catch spectacular sunrises creeping up over salt-flat lakes in the South of Tunisia. More than just history or beaches, Tunisia is an experience that makes every visit to this African nation a treasure.
15. Madagascar
Not even film can capture the true majesty of the island of Madagascar. And truly, how can one be expected to capture the beauty of baobab-lined avenues, stunning turquoise waters hiding even more magnificent coral reefs, and lush rainforests teeming with one-of-a-kind wildlife? To truly appreciate them, you have to experience them all firsthand.
Dive headfirst into national parks like Ranomafana National Park to meet rare species of lemurs like the greater bamboo and golden bamboo lemurs. Meanwhile, Berenty Reserve in the south hosts the cheeky ring-tailed lemurs you may recognize from the Madagascar films—King Julian’s lively manners aren’t all made up.
Madagascar is the largest island in Africa, so rest assured, there’s plenty to do and see. Long roads feature gorgeous scenery, while exciting hikes unveil marvels like the jagged limestone needles of Tsingy, one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on the island.
There are many reasons Madagascar is one of the top African travel destinations. From dancing lemurs to alluring shores and adrenaline-fueled escapades, everyone has a particular reason for falling in love.
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