Africa is one of the most underrated places for the ultimate travel experience in the world. The second-largest continent is home to the most diverse animal and plant species; with a carefully curated itinerary, visitors can take in the ideal fusion of the East and West, the wild and the urban, and the ancient and the modern. 

It can be challenging to decide on your vacation within a variety of attractions like Tanzania’s wildlife reserves and Cape Town’s stunning coastline. We have evaluated the top destinations in Africa according to professional opinions, accessibility, cost, and a variety of activities to help you plan.

1. Serengeti, Tanzania

For those who are captivated by the idea of having up-close encounters with zebras, elephants, giraffes, and wildebeests, a safari tour in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is the ideal excursion. Although the cost is high, traveling here offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the African savanna. Choose to stay at a budget campground in the park rather than an upscale safari resort or opulent tented camp to save money. For the finest conditions for game viewing, try to arrive in January or February (calving season) or between June and October (dry season and prime migratory time). 

2. Pyramids Of Giza, Egypt

The most well-known structure in Giza, Egypt, is the Pyramid of King Cheops, which was constructed in about 2650 BC out of 2.5 million limestone blocks with precisely the right orientation for each of the four directions. Cheops’ son, Chephren, also built a pyramid that is similar in size and has entrances to a burial chamber that still holds King Chephren’s large granite sarcophagus. Mycerinus’ pyramid is smaller than the other two, and all three are encircled by numerous smaller pyramids and tombs.

3. Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe

Outdoor enthusiasts come from far and wide to see this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the world, Victoria Falls is located in Mosi Oa Tunya National Park and spans the boundary between Zimbabwe and Zambia. It is about twice as deep and wide as Niagara Falls. When the region’s rainy season ends in April or May, you can witness this natural beauty at its best. Devil’s Pool, Livingstone Island, and the Knife-Edge Bridge are well-liked viewpoints. If you want to see the falls from a different perspective when you’re not enjoying the vista from above, consider going whitewater rafting in the Zambezi River.

4. Masai Mara National Park, Kenya

One of Kenya’s best places to view wildlife is the Masai Mara National Reserve, which is home to cheetahs, elephants, lions, wildebeests, hippos, and more. Take a safari to discover the more than 373,000 acres of undulating grasslands that make up this protected area. (A tip: Look for businesses whose guides hold a Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association certification.) Consider going on a hot air balloon safari or horseback riding tour for an additional dose of adventure. Plan your visit between July and October, when the Great Migration occurs, to maximize your chances of seeing the big five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes), as well as other migrating species.

5. Tanzania

The majority of visitors to Tanzania come for the safari, but you would be negligent if you neglected to make time for some of the other magnificent sights in the nation. Tanzania is home to a plethora of wildlife and incredible natural features, such as the huge crater of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the reddish Lake Natron, and Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa and the largest free-standing mountain on Earth. Make reservations for a climbing adventure up the continent’s most famous peak with a local tour operator for the ultimate adrenaline thrill.

6. Mauritius

Travelers looking for a little bit of everything will find Mauritius appealing. This little island nation lies east of Madagascar and attracts tourists primarily with its beautiful sands and opulent beach resorts, but it also has a diverse population, welcoming natives, exciting festivals, and delicious teas and rums. Come to one of the island’s best properties to enjoy fresh seafood while taking in a traditional sega dance performance or watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean after spending the day exploring some of the island’s nature reserves and soaking up the sun.

7. Zanzibar

Whether you’re looking for stunning white sand beaches or an incredible experience, Zanzibar has something to offer everyone. Sitting on serene beaches like Matemwe and Kiwengwa after traveling to these Indian Ocean islands off the coast of East Africa, you’ll feel instantly at rest. After that, go to Stone Town, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. There, you can see the remains of a palace from the 19th century and a cemetery connected to the former Arab kings of Zanzibar. And a trip wouldn’t be complete without seeing Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park and going on a spice tour around the region. Additionally, you’ll discover that this tropical getaway is surprisingly affordable.

8. Cairo, Egypt

Cairo may be extremely daunting because there is always something new to see and do. Soon you will be fully immersed in the history and culture of this Egyptian metropolis, from the ancient Pyramids of Giza to the gorgeous Nile River, to the busy Khan El-Khalili bazaar of Islamic Cairo. While winter brings the nicest weather all year round (think 60s and 70s throughout the day), it’s also the busiest time of year. If you can, try to visit in the spring or fall when prices for lodging are lower, the weather is more tolerable, and the people are thinner.

9. Madagascar

Madagascar’s ecosystem is distinct from any other place on Earth since most of the terrain is untouched, allowing tourists to witness wildlife in its native setting. Visitors should be on the lookout for the lemur, which is the nation’s national animal. More than 100 species of these animals and more than 11,000 plant species, including the stately baobab trees, can be found in Madagascar. Isalo National Park and Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve are two of the greatest locations to witness wildlife and Madagascar’s natural treasures. To see the world-class beaches of Nosy Be, make sure to allot some time for island hopping. 

10. Sphinx, Egypt

This enormous temple is located en route to the Valley Temple of King Chefren in Egypt. A lion with a human head has a body 70 meters long and 20 meters high, or the height of a six-story apartment building.

Despite the Sphinx’s traditionally feminine appearance, many academics think King Chefren’s visage is shown.

11. Fish River Canyon, Namibia

Namibia is a travel destination that never seems to tire. This massive chasm, which is second in size only to the Grand Canyon in the United States, is around 500 meters (1,640 feet) deep and more than 160 kilometers (100 miles) long. During the dry season, it is distinguished by stunning turquoise pools of periodically running water that extend into the distance.

12. Seychelles

The Seychelles, a collection of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, have long drawn travelers seeking a genuinely tranquil vacation away from the main road. One of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Anse Lazio, and Anse Source D’Argent are perfect places to spend your days relaxing without any crowds. Alternatively, explore the Vallée de Mai nature reserve, which is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see its distinctive wildlife and plants. Remember that the hotel is pricey here, particularly at the upscale resorts, so plan and save money.

13. Marrakech, Morocco

Similar to other ancient Moroccan cities, Marrakech is a vibrant place to visit. Street performers compete for your attention in the open-air Jemaa El Fna, which is located in the center of the city’s Medina. Vendors sell a variety of goods at the alleyway bazaars, including handmade fabrics, fragrant spices, and elaborate lanterns. When you need a respite from the bustle of the city, head to a rooftop bar, the Jardin Majorelle, or a hammam before retiring to your riad. When you’re there, listen for the distinct tones of the calls to prayer coming from the surrounding mosques.

14. Kruger National Park, South Africa 

There are a lot of creatures in this vast South African game preserve, including lions, rhinos, elephants, and giraffes. Due to its network of paved roads, Kruger National Park is less expensive to enter and easier to explore than the Serengeti. But because of its popularity, especially during the prime months to see wildlife (May to October), you’re more likely to come across large crowds of people when going on game drives. For a more privileged experience, think about going to one of the park’s private game reserves. You should probably plan your vacation at least a year in advance to guarantee hotel, airfare, and tour availability.

15. Sahara Dunes, Morocco

From Morocco’s northern border, you may reach the most accessible area of the Sahara. From the village of Zagoura, you can trek with Berbers or set up a tent in Tazzarine, the annual spring Marathon des Sables site, which attracts runners from all over the world.

The best place to see stars without any light pollution is at the base of the Merzouga Dunes.

16. Malawi

Malawi is a small country in southeast Africa that attracts tourists because of its stunning lake, abundant wildlife, and hospitable populace. One of the world’s deepest lakes, Lake Malawi offers visitors the opportunity to partake in water sports like sailing and kayaking, relax on a white sand beach, or scuba dive to search for vibrant cichlid fish. The Little Nation is a great less-crowded choice for a self-drive or guided safari because it has nine national parks and wildlife reserves. Travel between May and October, during the dry season, for the best chance of seeing wildlife.

17. Mountain Gorillas, Rwanda

You will always remember your up close and personal experience with the mountain gorillas in the Rwandan rainforest. Numerous companies provide tours that track the deep forest’s silverbacks and their troupes.

Covering more than 386 square miles in southwest Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a remote area at a height of nearly 6,000 feet. Travelers can experience the highest canopy in East Africa and interact with a wide variety of primates.

18. Djemaa el Fna, Morocco

Djemaa el Fna, the most vibrant town square in the world, makes you feel as though you are in Africa. In the sedentary afternoon hours of Marrakech’s old city, vendors of orange juice, storytellers, henna artists, snake charmers, and date dealers set up their booths.

Tribal drummers, ladyboy dancers, and mobile restaurateurs join the merchants as night falls, offering mouthwatering grilled meats, bread, and salads while smoke billows above their stalls far past midnight.

19. African Renaissance Monument, Senegal

The African Renaissance Monument in Senegal is the highest statue in Africa, standing at a height of 49 meters (160 feet), surpassing even the Statue of Liberty in New York.

The beautiful view of Dakar from the top of the monument tops off the thrilling effort of climbing to the summit.

20. Cape Town, South Africa

This South African center appeals to both ambitious and relaxed travelers with its abundance of hiking trails, miles of dramatic landscape, and magnificent beaches (one with wild penguins). Although traveling to Cape Town won’t be inexpensive, once you’re there, your money will go a long way. Don’t forget to see Nelson Mandela’s Robben Island detention cell, ride the aerial cableway up Table Mountain, and tour the renowned Constantia Valley wine region. Additionally, you should budget time for your hike through the Cape of Good Hope, which is located on the southernmost point of Africa, 40 miles south of Cape Town.